Russia has caused 8.63 trillion UAH in damage to Ukraine’s environment; over 12,500 instances of harm have been recorded
The damage caused to Ukraine’s environment as a result of Russian aggression is estimated at 8.63 trillion hryvnias. Ukraine has already recorded 12,518 instances of environmental damage caused by combat operations, shelling, and other consequences of the war.
This is evidenced by data from the state service "EcoZagroza" and the State Environmental Inspectorate. Dmytro Lubinets, the Verkhovna Rada’s Commissioner for Human Rights, also emphasized the far-reaching environmental consequences of Russian aggression, according to Censor.NET.
According to the State Environmental Inspection, the amount of damages was calculated using approved methodologies. This refers to damage to land and water resources, the atmosphere, and natural ecosystems.
Russian shelling is causing large-scale fires, the destruction of forests, and the contamination of water bodies and soil. The war is also leading to the death of animals and the destruction of their natural habitats.
The consequences of Russian aggression will be felt for decades
Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets emphasized that the Russians' destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant was one of the most significant examples of the devastation of Ukraine's natural environment.
Among other consequences, he cited the destruction of industrial facilities and the pollution of rivers and the Black Sea.
"Russia must be held accountable not only for what has been destroyed today, but also for the damage whose consequences Ukraine will be dealing with for decades," Lubinets said.
According to him, the environmental consequences of the war must be documented, assessed, and recognized internationally.
What damage has been done to Ukraine's natural environment?
According to data released by the State Environmental Inspection, the greatest losses are associated with soil contamination, fires, and the destruction of natural ecosystems.
In particular, damage to land resources exceeds 3 trillion hryvnia. Forest fires, petroleum product fires, and other fires have caused significant damage to the atmosphere. Losses to water resources are estimated at over 127 billion hryvnia.
At the same time, the figure of 8.63 trillion hryvnias cited here is an estimated calculation of the environmental damage, not the amount of compensation already recovered from Russia.
Lubinec emphasized the need for the Russian Federation to be held internationally accountable for the destruction of Ukraine’s environment, particularly for damage whose consequences may be felt for decades to come.
