NASA is downplaying concerns about a long-running air leak in the Russian segment of the ISS, noting recent reductions in the leak rate. A NASA OIG report highlighted that the leak in the Zvezda module, first detected in 2019, had increased significantly by April 2023. NASA officials reported progress in reducing the leak by one third through recent repairs. The root cause is still under investigation, focusing on internal and external welds. Crews mitigate the leak by keeping the hatch closed when not in use, but a permanent closure would affect docking capabilities.