Nuclear site in Chernobyl, Ukraine might still pose great danger. Now nearly 25 years since the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl, scientists warn that massive amounts of contaminated nuclear debris may still reside at the site. A special confinement structure built just after the 1986 explosion, designed to prevent radioactive emissions into the atmosphere, is expiring in 2011.

With some experts saying that up to 95% of the original nuclear fuel is still contained under the sarcophagus, Ukrainian Parliament member Vladimir Yavorivsky, stated, “So should the present sarcophagus collapse, we could see a very powerful explosion at the facility – as powerful as a nuclear one.” To assist in securing the region’s safety, the European Union is investing more than half a billion euros for the construction of a new, longer-lasting structure to cover the facility, which is expected to be complete by 2013.

Yulia Marusich, Chernobyl plant employee, speaking English: It won’t be just a frame, it will be a technological complex. A multi-functional crane system will be installed inside the new structure. It won’t be a final step. The new safe confinement should provide a safety environment for the works inside.

VOICE: We appreciate the concerned warning of the scientists as we thank the European Union for helping ensure the safety of the region. With Heaven's grace, let us work together to develop technologies in protection of life and peaceful coexistence across the globe.