From the window of his office at the Apostolic Palace, the pontiff addressed thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, recalling one of the greatest technological tragedies in history. "Today marks 40 years since the tragic Chernobyl accident, which has left an indelible mark on humanity's conscience," the Pope said, emphasizing the risks inherent in the use of increasingly advanced technologies without due responsibility.
The leader of the Catholic Church stressed the need for political and scientific decisions to be guided by ethical discernment. "May all use of atomic energy be at the service of life and peace," he added, in a message that resonates amid the global debate on the future of energy.
On April 26, 1986, an explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine released radioactive material that affected much of Europe. Although dozens died initially, thousands of subsequent deaths have been linked to radiation.