The devastating Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986 had a profound impact on the city, with long-lasting effects on those who were exposed to the aftermath. Oleksiy Breus, who bravely entered the control room just hours after the catastrophic explosion, experienced the toxic effects of the nuclear waste within a single shift.

Working at the plant since 1982, Oleksiy was the last person in the control room when the No 4 reactor failed during a safety test. He emphasized that the acclaimed series “Chernobyl” accurately depicted the rapid and severe effects of the explosion on the human body.

Describing his arrival to work on that fateful day, Oleksiy recalled the shock of witnessing the destroyed block as he approached the station. He recounted the dire conditions of his colleagues, including the shift leader and operator who succumbed to acute radiation syndrome within weeks.

Following the disaster, efforts to contain the situation seemed futile from the start. Key figures involved in the incident, including the plant director and engineers, faced legal consequences for their roles. Despite the challenges, individuals like Vasily Ignatenko and Oleksiy Ananenko showed immense bravery in their actions to mitigate the disaster’s impact.

The Chernobyl tragedy not only claimed lives immediately but also led to long-term health issues for those exposed to radiation. The event prompted a shift in the Soviet government’s policies, marking the end of a culture of secrecy that contributed to the disaster.