Ukraine is marking the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, which happened near Kyiv on 26 April 1986. The disaster at reactor four was the world’s worst nuclear accident and spread radioactive material across much of Europe. This year’s commemoration comes during Russia’s war in Ukraine, which has raised fears about safety at the site. Ukrainian officials say Russian missiles and drones have flown near the plant while attacking Ukrainian cities.
The Chernobyl disaster began after a reactor experiment went wrong during Soviet rule. Many people were exposed to radiation, and hundreds of thousands had to leave their homes. Large areas of land became contaminated, and some people later became ill from radiation-related diseases. The full number of deaths and long-term health effects is still debated by experts.
In 2016, a huge steel and concrete arch was placed over the damaged reactor to help contain radioactive debris. Ukrainian officials say a Russian drone strike in February 2025 damaged the arch’s sealed cover. No radiation leaks were found, but the structure now needs major repairs. Ukraine’s state prosecutor has said that at least 92 Russian drones have flown within five kilometres of the shield since June 2024.
The plant is about 100 kilometres north of Kyiv and is surrounded by a large exclusion zone where most people cannot live. Around 2,250 workers still help manage the site as it is slowly shut down. The last working reactor closed in 2000.
