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As of December 2025, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that the New Safe Confinement (NSC) steel shield at Chernobyl lost its primary safety functions after a Russian drone strike in February 2025. While load-bearing structures remain intact, comprehensive repairs are essential to prevent further degradation and ensure long-term nuclear safety amid ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict.
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On December 6-7, 2025, Russia launched a large-scale drone and missile attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and causing widespread power outages, including at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Ukrainian forces intercepted most attacks. Concurrently, US-mediated peace talks continue, with progress dependent on Russia's commitment to peace.
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As of late December 2025, Iran's leadership declares a state of total war with the US, Israel, and Europe amid ongoing sanctions and military confrontations. Israel plans to press the US for further strikes targeting Iran's missile program during a high-level meeting. Iran insists its missile activities are defensive, while Israel warns of Iran rebuilding its ballistic missile and nuclear capabilities after the June 12-day war.
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The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant remains a key point of tension in Ukraine-Russia conflict. Russia controls the plant, which is not producing electricity but could restart by mid-2027. Ukraine and Russia accuse each other of endangering safety, while US proposals for joint operation are under discussion.
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Recent US statements and military movements signal increased tension with Iran. President Trump called for regime change, while a US aircraft carrier's transit raises concerns about potential conflict and risks to Iran's nuclear assets amid internal instability and international scrutiny.
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The IAEA has inspected all declared Iranian nuclear facilities except for three key sites bombed in June. Iran has yet to report on the destroyed sites and enriched uranium stockpiles, raising concerns about nuclear material security and compliance with the NPT. Diplomatic efforts continue amid ongoing tensions.
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The IAEA held an emergency meeting amid ongoing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which threaten nuclear safety. Ukraine’s four nuclear plants, including the Zaporizhzhia site occupied by Russia, rely on external power. The meeting aims to increase diplomatic pressure on Russia to prevent nuclear accidents during winter.
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Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Geneva to prepare for indirect negotiations with the US, mediated by Oman, amid heightened regional tensions and US military build-up. The talks aim to address Iran's nuclear program, with Iran seeking sanctions relief and the US demanding limits on Iran's missile and proxy activities.
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Iran and the US are engaging in indirect negotiations in Geneva to revive their nuclear deal, with Iran emphasizing its refusal to accept zero uranium enrichment and US deploying military assets to the region. Tensions remain high, with Iran conducting military drills and warning of regional war.
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The US and Iran are set to meet in Geneva for the third round of nuclear negotiations amid heightened US military presence in the Middle East. Tensions escalate as Trump accuses Iran of restarting nuclear and missile programs, while Iran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful. The talks aim to prevent conflict.
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The IAEA reports Iran's nuclear activities remain unverified due to lack of access, with Iran maintaining a stockpile of uranium close to weapons-grade levels. Negotiations between the US and Iran continue, but tensions persist over Iran's nuclear program and regional security concerns.