As a result of Russia's armed aggression, approximately 142,000 km² of Ukraine's territory is considered potentially mined. Ukraine is the most mined country in the world, Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets has said.
During a speech at the International Baku Forum of Ombudsmen on Climate Change and Human Rights in Azerbaijan, Lubinets reported on the environmental damage caused by the Russian Federation in Ukraine.
"More than 4,700 environmental crimes worth $64 billion, which led to soil, water, and air pollution and damaged the nature reserve fund of Ukraine," Lubinets said.
The forum also discussed the impact of mines on the environment. According to Lubinets, as a result of Russia's armed aggression, Ukraine is the most mined country in the world.
"According to the UN, this endangers the lives and health of more than 6 million people. Since 24 February 2022 alone, 309 people have been killed by mines and explosives. About 142,000 km² are considered potentially mined. For comparison, after the war in Croatia, 13,000 km² were considered potentially mined. Since 1996, the process of demining this territory has not yet been completed!" the ombudsman stressed.
Lubinets said that 2,149 mine action operators are involved in demining in Ukraine. The biggest need for Ukraine is to provide specialists with proper equipment and means.