Russia’s ruthless war in Ukraine is causing irreparable harm to the environment, constituting ecocide. As the Commander in Chief, Vladimir Putin bears responsibility for the actions of the Russian armed forces in Ukraine. This war not only disrupts the social and economic benefits derived from Ukraine’s nature but also poses a significant threat to our global commons. Putin’s actions go against legal progress, international norms, human nature, and the concept of security.
Understanding Ecocide
The concept of ecocide was first defined in 2021 by the Independent Expert Panel to address severe and long-term environmental damage caused by unlawful or wanton acts. This definition, if adopted by the International Criminal Court, could become the fifth international crime under the ICC’s Rome Statute. Ukraine’s President Zelensky has included ecocide in his Peace Plan, highlighting the urgent need to prosecute such crimes for environmental protection.
Following the renewed invasion of Ukraine, environmental NGOs are documenting cases of environmental damage caused by Russia. Over 1,500 serious cases have been identified, including the deliberate bombing of the Kakhovka Dam, damage to the Black Sea marine environment, and destruction of agricultural resources. The consequences of these actions on Ukraine’s ecosystems are devastating and require immediate attention.
![EU response to Nova Kakhovka dam breach](https://www.eurozine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/52978702095_e0b64662dd_o.jpg)
The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Kherson oblast on 6 June 2023 caused massive flooding in the region on both sides of the Dnipro river. Image via EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian aid.
The Ukraine War Environmental Consequences Working Group aims to assess and disseminate environmental damage assessments for reparations and green reconstruction. International efforts, such as the Register of Damage for Ukraine (RD4U), are being established to address the environmental impact of the conflict. The global community is witnessing a critical juncture in legal and environmental discourse, emphasizing the need for accountable governance and protection of ecosystems.
Legal Safeguards and Future Directions
Existing laws of war prohibit methods or means of warfare that may cause widespread, long-term environmental damage. With advances in environmental legislation and awareness, countries like Ukraine are adapting their legal frameworks to address environmental crimes. The case for reparations for environmental damage is gaining traction, underscoring the importance of accountability and sustainable warfare practices.
As the world grapples with the climate crisis, the need for responsible governance and ecological sustainability becomes paramount. The global community must pursue justice for environmental damage and advocate for low carbon warfare practices to mitigate the impact of conflicts on the environment. It is imperative to prioritize environmental preservation and ecosystem restoration in the face of escalating ecological challenges.
Concluding Thoughts
Ukraine’s resilience in the face of environmental devastation exemplifies the urgent need for green reconstruction and sustainable development. As the world confronts the consequences of war on ecosystems, the pursuit of justice and reparations for environmental damage must remain central to international discourse. Holding perpetrators of ecocide accountable is essential for building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
The legacy of ecocide in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness between conflict and environmental degradation. As we strive towards a greener and more resilient world, the imperative to address environmental crimes and promote sustainable practices becomes increasingly vital. Let us stand in solidarity with Ukraine, a beacon of hope in the fight against climate destruction.
Slava Ukraini.
This article was originally published in the London Ukrainian Review.