Is fusion safer than nuclear?

Is it true that fusion energy production is inherently safer than traditional nuclear fission? Many experts claim that fusion, the process that powers the sun, doesn't create the same long-lived radioactive waste as fission reactors, and the risk of a meltdown or radiation release is significantly lower. But can we really consider fusion to be a safer alternative to nuclear power, given the challenges and unknowns surrounding its development and implementation? What are the potential risks and drawbacks of fusion energy that we should be aware of?