Ukraine’s aquatic ecosystems in 2025–2026 are facing mounting pressure. War‑related destruction, industrial accidents and long‑lasting consequences of past ecological disasters have led to a deterioration in water quality across the Black Sea, the Dnipro River basin and coastal areas. Monitoring by Kyiv Whale Eco Hubs indicates an accumulation of toxic substances and a decline in biodiversity, creating prolonged risks for public health.
The Black Sea remains the most affected ecosystem. More than five thousand tonnes of fuel oil spilled during the 2024 Volgoneft tanker accident continue to pollute the shoreline. The situation worsened after a large‑scale sunflower oil spill at the end of 2025, with storm waves pushing polymerised residues onto the territory of the Tuzlivski Lymany National Nature Park. Marine wildlife has suffered extensive losses: tens of thousands of dolphins have died, while mussel populations and waterfowl have experienced significant declines.
The long‑term impact of the 2023 destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant continues to affect hydrology. The exposed reservoir bed revealed high concentrations of heavy metals, which wash into the lower Dnipro during rainfall, forming a persistent source of chemical contamination.
Water quality issues are also recorded in rivers across other regions. Nearly a quarter of samples taken in 2025–2026 failed to meet microbiological standards, while many exceeded permitted chemical indicators. Several regions have fully suspended their swimming seasons due to health risks. Damaged infrastructure has increased the likelihood of petroleum products and toxic substances entering groundwater.
Repeated disruptions in water supply are prompting households to store additional water and ensure extra purification. Environmental experts warn that the impact on Ukraine’s water resources will continue for years and require coordinated long‑term restoration efforts.
Ukraine’s environmental losses from the war exceeded UAH 6 trillion
