Ukraine estimates war-related environmental damage at $190 billion
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha presented data at COP31, highlighting the massive environmental toll and threats to global food security caused by Russian aggression.
🧾Податки та виплатиPhoto: Інтерфакс-Україна: економіка
Key points
- Environmental damage assessed at $190 billion
- 139,000 square kilometers of land require demining
- Export potential of $10 billion at risk due to port attacks
During the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31), Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha detailed the severe environmental impacts resulting from the ongoing conflict. According to official estimates, the damage caused to Ukraine's natural environment since 2022 has reached $190 billion.
A significant portion of Ukrainian land—approximately 139,000 square kilometers—is currently suspected of being contaminated by mines and unexploded ordnance, creating long-term challenges for recovery. Beyond these issues, the Minister pointed to the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam and the occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant as major ecological catastrophes.
Sybiha also emphasized the impact on global food security. Constant strikes on Black Sea ports threaten the export of 30–32 million tons of agricultural produce, which represents a potential loss of $10 billion.
«Russia must pay for all the damage caused, including environmental harm. A just and lasting peace for Ukraine is a condition for the climate security of all of Europe», the Minister stated.
At the COP31 summit, Ukraine launched the «Ukraine is the Solution» pavilion to showcase its commitment to green recovery and energy stability. Sybiha urged international partners to increase pressure on Russian financing sources and provide more air defense systems to secure vital infrastructure.
Source Інтерфакс-Україна: економіка — interfax.com.ua/news/economic/1235401.html ↗
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