On April 26, 2026, events dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster took place on the plant’s grounds.
First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal, together with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Moldova Maia Sandu, International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development President Odile Renaud-Basso, and European Commissioners Valdis Dombrovskis and Dan Jørgensen, as well as energy ministers of partner countries, honored the memory of the heroic liquidators and all victims of the tragedy, expressing deep respect and gratitude for their courage and self-sacrifice.
“We thank everyone who took part in the liquidation of the consequences of the Chernobyl explosion 40 years ago, as well as their families, for their heroic deeds,” said Denys Shmyhal.
The key event was the International Conference on Restoration and Nuclear Safety. The conference launched a fundraising process for the restoration of the New Safe Confinement. According to preliminary estimates, the cost of restoration and strengthening the facility’s security following the russian drone strike in February 2025 amounts to approximately EUR 500 million.
During the event, an agreement was signed with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, providing EUR 30 million for the initial phase of restoration. Partners also announced initial commitments totaling nearly EUR 100 million. These funds will support the restoration of the Safe Confinement and enhance nuclear safety in Ukraine.
Conference participants adopted a joint statement in which partner countries expressed support for Ukraine’s efforts to mobilize resources for restoring the containment structure. The document was endorsed by 24 states.
“I am extremely grateful to the EBRD for its leadership in mobilizing financial resources. I would also like to thank the IAEA, the European Union, the governments of partner countries, and everyone supporting Ukraine in addressing the consequences of russian attacks while strengthening the resilience of the power system,” noted Denys Shmyhal.
1. Joint Statement of the International Conference on Chornobyl in English
2. Спільна заява Міжнародної конференції щодо Чорнобиля українською мовою (неофіційний переклад)
