On April 26, marking the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, Moldova’s President Maia Sandu visited Kyiv. She announced her plans via a post on Facebook, highlighting a scheduled meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and a visit to Chernobyl to honor those who sacrificed their health and lives for Europe.
In her statement, Sandu emphasized the significance of the Chernobyl nuclear accident, noting that it illustrated the transnational nature of disasters and the strength of international solidarity. She remarked, “This morning, as we commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear catastrophe, I am traveling to Kyiv for talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as to Chernobyl—to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their health or even their lives to protect Europe from further tragedy.”
“The Chernobyl disaster showed us that catastrophes do not recognize borders, but it also demonstrated the power of international solidarity,” she added.
Sandu pointed to the protective arch over the contaminated reactor as evidence that countries can achieve extraordinary feats when they work together. She called for similar unity and resolve in the current context, stating, “We need that same unity and determination today—to protect peace in Europe. Moldova’s place is with those who choose to build rather than destroy.”
Prior to the anniversary, a media outlet visited the station under the arch and the ghost town of Pripyat within the exclusion zone, exploring the security measures in place at the site that has endured the worst nuclear disaster in history, as well as the impacts of Russian occupation and shelling.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu's visit to Kyiv on the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster underscores the enduring lessons of international cooperation in the face of catastrophe. Her remarks reflect a commitment to peace and solidarity in Europe amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.