One-Third of Ukraine’s Nature Reserves Destroyed by War; Eight Parks Under Occupation.

Status of Protected Natural Areas

According to UATV: The ongoing war with Russia has damaged or placed at risk over one-third of Ukraine’s protected natural areas. According to the Minister of Environmental Protection, eight nature reserves and ten national parks remain under temporary occupation. These sites are critical for preserving Ukraine’s biodiversity and ecosystems.

Despite these challenges, Ukraine continues to expand its network of protected areas. The government recently approved the creation of the 'Chornyi Lis' National Park in the Kirovohrad region and is preparing to open the 'Budzhak Steppes' Park in the Odesa region. These efforts demonstrate the country’s commitment to conserving natural resources even amid military threats.

Ecosystems Under Threat

On May 7, a Russian drone attack sparked a massive forest fire in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant exclusion zone, burning an estimated area exceeding 1,100 hectares. This incident highlights the severe risks that wartime conditions pose to protected natural lands.

'Despite the war, Ukraine continues to develop its nature reserve system,' said Oleksiy Sobolev.

The situation for Ukraine’s protected areas remains alarming, as military operations significantly undermine the country’s environmental security. However, government initiatives to establish new national parks could prove vital for preserving biodiversity and restoring ecosystems in the post-conflict period. Expanding the nature reserve network may help Ukraine not only safeguard its natural wealth but also rehabilitate it once the war ends.