Environmental consequences of Russian aggression invasion of Ukraine (2022)

Abstract

Introduction. Environmental protection, rational use of natural resources and environmental security are among the guidelines for sustainable development of any state. However, it is important to emphasize that effective realization of such activities is possible only in peaceful time. At present, the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine puts under the direct threat effective ensuring of environmental security. The purpose of the paper is to analyze the environmental impact of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, highlight its consequences and predict the future environmental situation. Results. Under international law, an environmental crime is interpreted as an intentional attack when it is known that it will cause significant, long-term and serious damage to the environment, which is clearly disproportionate to the specific and directly expected overall military superiority. The military action of the Russian Federation in Ukraine in 2022 is undoubtedly an unjustified and unprovoked act of aggression against independent and sovereign Ukraine, as well as a violation of all existing norms of international law on environmental protection, sustainable development, humanitarian law, basic morals and principles of human coexistence. By May 2022 27 254 cases of environmental war crimes with regards to Russia's war against Ukraine had been registered. These include shelling and bombing of industrial and energy facilities, forest fires, sabotage of oil depots, pollution of the seas, destruction of reserves, as well as other horrific, inhumane actions of the Russian army. Conclusion. Russia's aggression against Ukraine has caused significant damage to the environment, like deterioration of soil, radiation pollution, biodiversity losses, forest fires, ecosystems’ destruction, etc. In order to remedy the current dire environmental situation, the development and implementation of urgent legal and policy measures is required in order to minimize the harmful environmental effects. In particular, it is necessary to constantly keep records of all crimes against the environment committed on the territory of Ukraine, and to record the damage caused. In addition, a special attention should be paid to the development of a plan for the reconstruction of Ukraine, which would include measures to restore and preserve the environment.