Chernobyl nuclear reactor still a major threat, says Ukrainian president
Tuesday 27 April 2010
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EmailUkrainian President Viktor Yanukovych warned on Monday that the Chernobyl nuclear reactor remains a serious threat to Europe, urging donors to stump up funds to secure the facility on the 24th anniversary of the world's worst atomic accident.
The 1986 reactor explosion sent a cloud of radiation over much of Europe and severe health problems persist.
The exploded reactor is encased in a deteriorating shell and internationally funded work to replace it is far behind schedule.
A statement released by the president's office said that the plant's fourth nuclear reactor continued to present an active danger after work to replace a deteriorating concrete shell around the facility was postponed due to a shortage of funds last year.
The problem "is urgent not only for the Ukraine but also for our neighbours," Mr Yanukovych said.
He added: "We must, of course, unite our partners, donors and all our neighbours around the question because it is highly dangerous."
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