Russia’s war against Ukraine has caused large-scale environmental destruction, leading to unprecedented pollution: Denys Shmyhal

The war unleashed by Russia against Ukraine has had catastrophic consequences for the environment, causing large-scale pollution. This issue was discussed during the Conference on Issue 8, Environmental Security, as part of the President’s Peace Formula. This is stated in the message of the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal.

The event was held in Helsinki with the participation of Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and representatives of other states.

Ukraine’s environmental losses due to the war are currently estimated at $65 billion. A third of Ukraine’s forests and 20% of its protected areas have been severely damaged. This, in turn, threatens 35% of European biodiversity, of which Ukrainian ecosystems are a part.

Ukraine declares the need to develop a common strategy to protect nature and human life. The principle of ‘the enemy must pay’ is key in this process. The Ukrainian side is ready to work with international partners to develop specific measures.

The following tasks were identified as priorities:

• Tracking and documenting the environmental consequences of the war;
• Collecting feedback and technical recommendations from international partners;
• Developing a plan to bring Russia to justice for ecocides.

‘Environmental safety is a prerequisite for economic and social development. Therefore, we must find solutions and resources to best protect and restore our nature and ecology,’ said Denys Shmyhal.