Representatives from Ukraine and France inspected the aftermath of the recent Russian attack on the New Safe Confinement, or Ark, a protective structure enclosing the fourth reactor unit of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, and designed and built by a French consortium. Currently, French partners are exploring the possibility of providing support for the Ark’s restoration through the International Cooperation Account for Chernobyl. The extent of the damage is being assessed, and a plan is being developed to restore the Ark’s functionality.

Pierre Elbron, the French president’s special envoy for the assistance and reconstruction of Ukraine, believes that the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone offers opportunities for renewable energy projects.

“I am keen to explore solar energy initiatives. My visit to Chernobyl will help us better understand how to harness the potential of the Exclusion Zone for Ukraine’s energy needs,” he stated.

Elbron emphasized that Ukraine and France share a similar energy balance between nuclear and renewable energy, viewing them as the foundation of Europe’s energy security.