
UK commits £17m to Chornobyl repairs as Europe scrambles to replace US Starlink support
The UK has pledged £17 million to repair damage to the Chornobyl nuclear plant caused by a Russian drone strike in 2025. The funding aims to restore the site's protective shelter and ventilation systems to prevent long-term environmental risks. This commitment was announced by Chancellor Andy Burnham during a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in London, signaling continued British support despite growing concerns about the reliability of US military aid. The pledge coincides with reports that Ukraine’s access to Starlink technology has been restricted, rendering many drones inoperable and prompting European leaders to seek alternative satellite capabilities.

