In Ukraine, over 100 cases of ecocide recorded, caused by Russian attacks

As a result of hostilities waged by the Russian invaders, more than 100 cases of ecocide have already been recorded in Ukraine.

That’s according to the Ukrainian Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights, Liudmyla Denisova, who posted the relevant statement on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.

Denisova noted that according to Article 441 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, ecocide is a mass destruction of flora and fauna, poisoning of the atmosphere or water resources, as well as other actions that could cause an environmental disaster.

According to the obudsperson, the most dangerous for the environment are Russia's attacks on Ukrainian nuclear power plants, infrastructure, and industrial facilities, natural reserves, and ecosystems, as well as water resources.

“So far, more than 100 cases of ecocide and more than 1,200 cases of negative impact on the environment have been recorded (shell rupture, forest fires, chemical pollution, etc.). The deliberate destruction of nature and environmental pollution as a result of Russia’s military actions will have long-term implications not only for Ukraine but also for many countries around the world," Denisova said.

She also noted that the ecocide entails disappearance of flora, extinction of fauna, poisoning of the atmosphere and water resources. As its effect may extend to a large number of nations, it is necessary to introduce a single and effective mechanism to combat this crime.

Denisova noted that Russia's actions in Ukraine violate not only national but also international law and customs. This is primarily a violation of the UN Charter, as well as Part 3 of Article 38 of the Protocol to the Geneva Convention, which prohibits the use of methods or means of warfare that are intended to cause or are expected to cause widespread, long-term, and serious damage to the environment.

The Commissioner called on the UN Commission to Investigate Human Rights Violations during Russia's Military Invasion of Ukraine to take into account these violations committed in Ukraine.

As Ukrinform reported, acting Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Ruslan Strelets said that Ukraine could become the first country in the world to receive reparations for environmental damage inflicted by Russian troops.