Chernobyl Victim’s Widow Killed in Russian Drone Attack
A tragic incident occurred in Kyiv on 14 November when a 73-year-old woman succumbed to injuries from a Russian drone attack. This incident is part of an ongoing pattern of violence affecting residents in the area, resulting in at least 50 injuries. The victim, identified as Natalia Khodymchuk, suffered severe burns covering 45% of her body, including her respiratory tract.
Natalia Khodymchuk: Widow of Chernobyl’s First Victim
Natalia Khodymchuk is known as the widow of Valery Khodymchuk, who died during the Chernobyl disaster on 26 April 1986. His heroic efforts to contain the catastrophe made him the first recorded victim of the disaster. Valery’s remains were never recovered from the reactor site, where he lost his life amid the radioactive blaze.
Life After Chernobyl
Following the Chernobyl incident, Natalia, along with her children, was evacuated from the exclusion zone. They relocated to a new 18-storey residential building in Kyiv, situated near another power station. Concerns arose that “Chernobyl veterans” were intentionally grouped in this area to prevent them from spreading radiation-related illnesses throughout the city.
As time passed, it became evident that radioactive fallout had indeed reached Kyiv. Authorities advised residents against taking children to public celebrations during that period, despite initial claims from Moscow asserting that the situation was contained.
Honoring the Memory of Valery Khodymchuk
In 1996, a symbolic burial took place at Mitinskoe Cemetery in Moscow, where Valery Khodymchuk was laid to rest alongside other firefighters who succumbed to radiation sickness. This site became a notable memorial for those affected by the Chernobyl disaster.
Personal Reflections and Legacy
Natalia Khodymchuk frequently reflected on her late husband, cherishing the memory of their relationship that blossomed in Pripyat, the now-abandoned town of Chernobyl workers. Their love story, reminiscent of classic Soviet tales, began in the canteen where both worked, ultimately leading to a marriage filled with cherished memories.
A Final Tragedy
Despite her tragic injuries and deteriorating health from the recent drone attack, Natalia remained passionate about preserving her husband’s legacy. Friends from the Chernobyl veterans’ organization visited her in the burns unit, where she expressed concern about losing the details of Valery’s life to time.
- Date of Attack: 14 November
- Age of Victim: 73
- Injuries Sustained: 45% burns
- First Victim of Chernobyl: Valery Khodymchuk, died on 26 April 1986
- Location of Drone Attack: Residential building in Kyiv
As Natalia reflected on her past, she highlighted the importance of remembering those lost to both the disaster and the ongoing conflict. Her granddaughter, named Valeria in honor of her grandfather, continues to carry forward the memory of Valery’s sacrifice. This latest drone attack adds yet another chapter to the ongoing tragedy faced by the victims and families connected to Chernobyl.
