State Awards for Chernobyl Disaster Responders
On the anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky presented state honors to three groups: those who responded to the 1986 catastrophe, station personnel who kept operations running during the 2022 Russian occupation, and individuals who tackled the aftermath of a Russian drone strike on the containment structure in 2025. The ceremony coincided with commemorations for the victims of the April 26, 1986 accident, a key moment in Ukraine's history.
Recipients of the Honors
Among those recognized, Oleksandr Novikov received the Order of Merit, First Class, for stabilizing the sarcophagus structure. The Order of Merit, Third Class, was awarded to:
- Oleksandr Bielobrov, who led a repair team during the Russian occupation in 2022;
- Ruslan Hnatchuk, for his role in addressing the consequences of a Russian drone strike on the containment arch in February 2025;
- Serhiy Honcharov, who managed water purification systems and storage facilities under occupation;
- Anatoliy Chumak, who oversaw medical services in the 30-kilometer exclusion zone after the disaster.
Vasyl Sydorenko was awarded the Order for Courage, Second Class, for his work stabilizing Reactor 4 on April 26, 1986. The Order for Courage, Third Class, went to:
- Mykhailo Alieksieienko, for extinguishing a fire in the plant's cable tunnels;
- Oleksandr Kolesnik, for responding to the drone strike on the containment arch's cladding;
- Oleksandr Komarenko, who at 80 meters height tackled the aftermath of the 2025 drone attack.
Natalia Diachuk received the Order of Princess Olga, Third Class, for providing food for Ukrainian staff during the March–April 2022 occupation. Her efforts enabled over 200 workers to continue their duties in the Exclusion Zone.
On April 26, 2026, Ukraine and the world remembered the victims of the Chernobyl accident. President Zelensky and International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi inaugurated the exhibition 'Chernobyl: People and Meanings,' underscoring the importance of honoring the tragedy's memory and the heroism of those who mitigated its effects.
'This awards ceremony is a vital step in recognizing the heroism and courage of those who participated in mitigating the Chernobyl disaster's consequences, as well as those who kept the station running during wartime.' — Volodymyr Zelensky
Honoring the victims and acknowledging the responders' contributions highlights the role of historical memory in Ukrainian society and the need for international cooperation to ensure nuclear facility safety.
In light of the ongoing recognition of Chernobyl responders, it's important to note that Ukraine has established a new state award specifically for those who have contributed to managing the disaster's aftermath. This initiative not only honors past heroes but also aims to motivate future efforts in maintaining safety and preparedness. To learn more about this significant development, you can read about the new state award for Chernobyl responders.