Damage from Kakhovka HPP destruction reaches $14 billion, seven times initial estimate

The destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP) caused approximately $14 billion in damage, Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk said in an interview with the Rada TV channel.

Hrynchuk noted that the amount of lost water resources is comparable to half the reserves of some African countries. Around 30% of Kherson Oblast's nature reserve fund was flooded and irreparably damaged.

"Of course, we anticipated that the land left behind after the water receded would degrade, but fortunately, nature has sided with Ukraine. Willow forests are now growing in these areas. It is developing differently, creating a unique ecosystem born from this tragedy. Nature is slowly recovering on its own," Hrynchuk stated.

She added that the government is working to identify new water resource supply options for regions still struggling with the aftermath of the dam's destruction. International partners are also being engaged to strengthen water infrastructure.

However, the minister noted that the consequences of the Kakhovka disaster will be felt for a long time.

Since the start of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, environmental damage has totaled nearly 3 trillion hryvnias ($70.1 billion). Hrynchuk noted that this is one of the largest losses compared to other sectors.

Additionally, greenhouse gas emissions caused by the war have reached 180 million tons, equivalent to $32 billion.