Ecological ecocide: Lubinets speaks about the long-term consequences of war for the nature of Ukraine
Military operations cause serious damage not only to people but also to nature, leaving a negative impact for decades. The Ombudsman of Ukraine, Dmytro Lubinets, noted that the destruction of forests, pollution of rivers and soil is affecting ecosystems, which poses a threat to the health of future generations.
According to him, since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, more than 6,000 environmental crimes have been recorded, and the damage caused is estimated at UAH 2.6-2.7 trillion. Mined land, burnt forests, polluted water bodies and the atmosphere – all this causes irreversible changes, which the ombudsman called ‘ecocide’.
Lubinets called on the international community to join forces to protect the environment in times of war.
‘This day is a call to the international community to join forces to protect nature in times of war. It is important to remember that environmental protection is no less valuable than peace and security,’ the official said.
