April 26 marks the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, an event that determined the fate of thousands of residents of the Luhansk region. They were the ones who participated in the liquidation of the consequences of the accident, performing tasks in conditions of increased radiation risk.

PEOPLE AND RESPONSIBILITY

About 13 thousand residents of Luhansk region were involved in the liquidation of the consequences of the accident. As of the beginning of 2026, 1,529 people from Luhansk region receive a disability pension related to the liquidation, another 1,444 have the status of victims, and 3,289 people receive a monthly additional pension for damage caused to health. In total, more than three thousand direct participants in the liquidation are registered.

On the eve of the 40th anniversary, representatives of the Chernobyl community were honored as part of regional events. The honorary distinction "For the Development of the Region" was received by Alevtina Fialkovska, head of the Luhansk regional organization of the All-Ukrainian public organization of the disabled "Chornobyl Union of Ukraine".

The liquidator Mark Reutov was awarded the distinction of the Chairman of the Defense Council of the Luhansk Region "For Merit to the Luhansk Region". Another 11 participants in the liquidation received Certificates of Honor and Letters of Gratitude from the regional state administration.

Separate events to mark the anniversary were held in the region's communities. In particular, in the Milivska community, a participant in the liquidation, Ihor Lyubiy, shared his memories of the events of 1986 and emphasized the need to preserve historical memory.

SUPPORT AND SOCIAL GUARANTEES

The 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster is a moment when it is important to say directly: two generations of Ukrainians owe their lives to the liquidators. The state honors their feat by fulfilling its social obligations.

From March 1, disability pensions related to the liquidation of the Chernobyl accident have been increased. For persons with disabilities of group I, the payment is UAH 11,048.25, for group II - UAH 8,838.60, for group III - UAH 6,813.09. Also provided is a monthly additional pension for damage caused to health and compensation to families for an incapacitated family member in case of loss of the breadwinner.

In April, all pension recipients, including liquidators, regardless of the size of their pension, received a one-time payment of UAH 1,500.

Despite the war and forced displacement, support for the liquidators from Luhansk region remains systematic. In April 2026, 142 liquidation participants received humanitarian aid, which was delivered to various regions of Ukraine.

Support for liquidators from Luhansk Region continues at the state and regional levels. The implementation of social guarantees and targeted programs remains a systematic effort aimed at meeting their needs in the current conditions.