Russia has destroyed over 60,000 hectares of forests, causing damages valued at least $360 million, according to an investigation by NGL Media.
Ukraine’s intelligence revealed that the Kremlin authorized the destruction of Ukrainian forests for military and commercial purposes at the onset of the full-scale war in 2022.
The State Forest Resources Agency estimated that nearly 30% of Ukraine’s forests have sustained damage due to the years-long war.
Conservative Estimate
Satellite image analysis by NGL Media indicates that approximately 60,000 hectares were completely destroyed.
The reported cost is considered a conservative estimate and does not include the potential value of wood production or other environmental impacts.
The long-term ecological consequences may include decreased groundwater levels, reduced biodiversity, air quality deterioration, and risks of fires, as forests play a crucial role in water retention and soil stability.
Environment Minister Ruslan Strilets reported to Deutsche Welle that the environmental toll of Russia’s actions has surpassed ($56.6 billion.
