Over 7,000 Environmental Crimes Committed by Russia in Ukraine: The Shocking Impact of the Full-Scale Invasion

Since Russia’s invasion, over 7,000 environmental crimes have occurred in Ukraine, leading to damages exceeding EUR 72.9 billion. This alarming information was shared by Olha Yukhymchuk, the Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources for European Integration, during a meeting in Rome with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The reported crimes include severe land and soil pollution, harm to nature reserves and vital ecosystems, and contamination of air and water. These actions not only devastate the environment but also contribute to climate change.

Yukhymchuk noted that the data gathered from these environmental damages will form the basis for Ukraine’s green recovery efforts. The Ministry is working on a new framework law titled “On the Basics of Green Recovery,” which aims to establish important principles and align Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts with European standards.

The Ministry of Ecology is also partnering with Italian officials to prepare for the upcoming Recovery Conference on July 10-11, 2025, in Italy. This conference will outline the next steps for climate projects in Ukraine and support its journey toward EU membership.

During her visit, Yukhymchuk also talked with representatives from WWF Italy about the importance of the URC2025 environmental agenda. Topics included how non-governmental organizations can help in the preparations and ways to protect biodiversity while creating green jobs, especially for veterans.

Additionally, Italian Deputy Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, Vannia Gava, reiterated Italy’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s recovery. The URC2025 will bring together leaders from 77 countries, with around 1,800 participants expected, marking the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference after similar events in Switzerland, the UK, and Germany.

These discussions and collaborations show a strong commitment to rebuilding Ukraine sustainably and strengthening its ties with Europe.

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