The war in Ukraine has unleashed an unprecedented environmental crisis, leaving scars that will linger for decades. Beyond the visible destruction of cities and infrastructure, the conflict has inflicted deep, lasting damage on Ukraine’s natural environment—contaminating soil, water, and air, and causing widespread harm to wildlife.

Ukrainian prosecutors are actively pursuing 247 cases of environmental war crimes against Russia, including 14 classified as ecocide. These cases collectively estimate damages exceeding $85 billion. The legal efforts underscore the gravity of the environmental toll, which has transformed once-thriving ecosystems into toxic wastelands.

One of the most catastrophic incidents was the 2023 breach of the Kakhovka dam, which not only devastated agricultural lands but also polluted the Black Sea. The floodwaters swept through farmlands, carrying with them chemicals, heavy metals, and other toxic substances. The collapse of irrigation systems in southern Ukraine led to agricultural collapse, threatening food security in a region historically known as the “breadbasket of Europe.”

The environmental damage extends far beyond the immediate war zones. Toxic flooding from abandoned coal mines, intensified wildfires fueled by mine-strewn forests, and uncontrolled chemical spills have become all too common. These disasters have left behind a legacy of pollution that affects soil fertility, water quality, and biodiversity.

According to environmental experts, the war has caused at least $56.4 billion in environmental damage. The contamination of air, water, and soil with hazardous chemicals and heavy metals poses a significant risk to human health. Toxic substances from munitions, including TNT, mercury, and lead, are seeping into groundwater and entering the food chain. These pollutants not only threaten the health of those living in affected areas but also have long-term consequences for future generations.

Nearly one-third of Ukraine’s protected natural areas have suffered damage. Forests, once vibrant with life, are dying from the combined effects of war, pollution, and climate change. Wildlife populations are in decline, with species struggling to survive in polluted habitats. Researchers warn that the war’s environmental effects will persist for decades, with ecosystems struggling to recover even after the conflict ends.

The impact on public health is profound. Contaminated water sources and soil degradation have led to an increase in respiratory diseases, skin conditions, and other health issues among local populations. The spread of toxic substances through the food chain adds another layer of risk, potentially leading to chronic illnesses and developmental disorders.

The war’s environmental toll also includes the destruction of vital infrastructure. Oil refineries, chemical plants, and energy facilities have been targeted, releasing pollutants into the air and water. The burning of fossil fuels and the use of explosives have contributed to air pollution, affecting both urban and rural populations.

In addition to legal actions, Ukraine is working with international environmental organizations to assess and mitigate the damage. However, the scale of the crisis is overwhelming. Restoration efforts will require substantial financial resources, technological expertise, and long-term commitment from both the Ukrainian government and the global community.

The international community has begun to take notice. Several countries and environmental groups have pledged support for Ukraine’s recovery efforts, recognizing that the war’s environmental consequences transcend national borders. The pollution of the Black Sea, for example, affects not just Ukraine but also neighboring countries that rely on its waters for fishing and tourism.

As Ukraine battles not only military aggression but also the invisible enemy of environmental degradation, the world watches with growing concern. The toxic legacy of this war serves as a grim reminder of the long-term costs of conflict—not just in human lives and infrastructure, but in the very air we breathe, the water we drink, and the land that feeds us.

When the last missile falls and the final ceasefire is declared, Ukraine’s environmental scars will remain. The journey of recovery will be long, and the fight for the planet’s health will continue long after peace is restored.