"The control levels of gamma radiation dose rate in the Exclusion zone were exceeded," a statement by the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine read, attributing the change to "disturbance of the top layer of soil from movement of a large number of radio heavy military machinery through the Exclusion zone and increase of air pollution." The Russian military has disputed the Ukrainian government's statement.
President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, sending thousands of troops, tanks, and planes across the border in the early hours of the morning. Russian defense officials confirmed on Friday their troops had taken Chernobyl.
The announcement prompted outrage from Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky.