The Greater Chernobyl Cause

19/06/2026

Remembering Oleksandr Puchkivskyi

Today, June 18, we honour Oleksandr Puchkivskyi (1881–1937), a visionary Ukrainian doctor, scientist, professor, and founder of the Ukrainian otolaryngology school.

Born in Krasne village, Chernihiv region, Puchkivskyi dedicated his life to service, intellect, and compassion. After graduating from St. Petersburg's Military Medical Academy, he became a respected military doctor and a leading figure in Ukrainian medicine.

His textbooks guided Ukrainian doctors, and his research gained international recognition with publications in Germany, Spain, and Japan. He established Ukraine’s first otolaryngology department in Kyiv, leading the Kyiv Medical Institute’s department. With over 100 scientific papers, the first Ukrainian ENT textbook, and many students, his impact was profound.

In 1935, Puchkivskyi represented Ukrainian medicine at Madrid’s international congress, advocating for peace and scientific progress.

However, under Stalin’s regime, such international acknowledgement and Ukrainian identity became dangerous. In October 1937, while recovering from a serious operation, he was arrested by the NKVD. Coerced confessions of espionage and “counterrevolutionary activity"—charges that were baseless—claimed his textbooks were malicious.

A man who saved lives.
A man whose textbooks shaped Ukrainian medicine.
A man who inspired countless students.

Declared an enemy for being educated, respected, and Ukrainian.

He was sentenced on December 6 and executed in Kyiv on December 14, 1937, at only 56. His body most likely lies in an unmarked grave in Bykivnia Forest—without a grave, cross, or the right to be remembered.

In 1957, Oleksandr Puchkivskyi was fully exonerated; all accusations proved false.

Throughout his life, he was a talented healer, a committed mentor, and a believer that knowledge should serve humanity. He deserved many more years to heal, teach, and build.

But in 1937, regimes didn’t need doctors; they only needed enemies.

Puchkivskyi longed only to heal.
The regime decided that was enough to end his life.

Today, the Greater Chornobyl Cause preserves his story and sacrifice.

We honour his name and will never forget.

18/06/2026

Cllr Ciara O'Connor
Ciara O Connor

Greater Chornobyl Cause Applauds Cllr Ciara O’Connor’s Powerful Stand in Solidarity with Palestine

Fiona Corcoran, founder of the Greater Chornobyl Cause, wishes to express her deepest admiration for Clr Ciara O’Connor for her unwavering commitment to justice and humanity, as powerfully demonstrated by her support for the people of Palestine.

The recent dedication in Cork—“In Solidarity with Palestine”—is a profound act of compassion and courage.
"Dedicated to the memory of Palestinians who have lost their lives, and to all those who continue to live through conflict, occupation, and displacement. May this place stand as a reflection of remembrance, humanity, solidarity, and hope for peace and justice. Placed by the people of Cork."

Clkr O’Connor has been a leading voice in standing up for the rights and dignity of Palestinians enduring unimaginable hardship and displacement. Her advocacy serves as a reminder that the people of Cork, and Ireland as a whole, will not turn away from suffering or injustice, no matter how distant it may seem. Her determination to ensure that the stories, grief, and hopes of Palestinians are not forgotten is an inspiration to us all.

Cllr O’Connor’s leadership embodies the spirit of global solidarity. She amplifies the call for peace and justice, challenging us to reflect on our shared humanity and to act in defence of those most vulnerable. Her unwavering support for the Greater Chornobyl Cause, alongside her passionate advocacy for Palestine, demonstrates her commitment to making the world a more compassionate and just place.

“Clkr Ciara O’Connor has shown extraordinary moral courage in standing with the Palestinian people,” said Fiona Corcoran.

“Her actions remind us that true leadership means speaking up for those who cannot, and insisting on justice, remembrance, and hope even in the face of adversity.

The Greater Chornobyl Cause is proud to stand alongside Cllr O’Connor in her pursuit of a more peaceful and compassionate world.”

17/06/2026

17/06/2026

Ireland’s Oldest Independent Publishing House.

16/06/2026

Quaide

Thank you, Liam, for your steadfast support and passionate advocacy for Ukrainian families in Trabolgan and across East Cork.

Your words and actions bring genuine hope to those who have already faced immense hardship. Having worked for years with Ukrainian communities in conflict zones and newcomers here in Ireland, I can confidently say that your compassion and leadership genuinely impact lives.

Standing up and speaking out for vulnerable groups is never easy, especially amid tensions and uncertainty. Your willingness to acknowledge the challenges these families face—who are now vital parts of our community, with children excelling in school and parents contributing through work and volunteering—demonstrates true humanity and courage.

At The Greater Chernobyl Cause, we prioritise supporting those in need, regardless of nationality or circumstance.

We have seen the pain and destruction caused by war, but also the resilience and kindness that emerge when communities choose solidarity over division.

Your ongoing support and determination to oppose scapegoating and injustice are genuinely inspiring, reminding us of our collective duty to protect the vulnerable.

Thank you for refusing to let negativity or hostility hinder you from doing what is right.

Thank you for giving voice to the unheard and reminding al that compassion is a strength, not a weakness.

We at The Greater Chornobyl Cause continue to fight for dignity, respect, and hope for everyone—Irish, Ukrainian, and beyond.

With heartfelt gratitude and respect,
Fiona Corcoran
The Greater Chornobyl Cause
Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦

15/06/2026

Today’s bombing of the Dormition Cathedral at the Kyiv‑Pechersk Lavra is an outrageous desecration and yet another clear example of war crimes committed under the direction of Putin and the Kremlin.

This sacred site, a UNESCO World Heritage landmark and cornerstone of Ukrainian religious and cultural identity, was targeted in a deliberate act of violence that shocked not only Ukraine but the entire world.

The world is witnessing a relentless and merciless campaign of violence, with innocent civilians and treasured places of worship being attacked across Ukraine.

These assaults are not isolated incidents—they form part of a deeply disturbing pattern of destruction, cruelty, and disregard for human life and dignity.

The repeated bombings in Kyiv and many other Ukrainian cities today are a stark reminder of the unimaginable suffering being endured by the Ukrainian people.

Each attack brings additional trauma and loss, tearing at the fabric of communities and targeting the very heart of Ukrainian heritage.

This is not just an attack on a building or a city; it is an attack on hope, faith, and the universal values of humanity.

The international community must not remain silent. We must all raise our voices in outrage and solidarity, condemning these atrocities in the strongest possible terms, and standing shoulder to shoulder with those who have been affected.

Now, more than ever, Ukraine needs our support, our compassion, and our unwavering commitment to justice and peace.