Ukrhydroenergo Urges International Action on Water Security at OSCE Forum
“Water must remain a source of life. russia’s actions have turned it into a weapon of war,” stated Valentyn Gvozdiy, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Ukrhydroenergo, addressing the OSCE’s annual meeting to review economic and environmental commitments.
Gvozdiy highlighted the urgent need for international measures to protect water security. He described the impact of the destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant by russian forces in June 2023, which caused the loss of 18 billion cubic meters of water, left nearly 2 million people without centralised water, and severely affected 584,000 hectares of fertile farmland. He emphasised that russia is weaponising water, aiming to transform this life-sustaining resource into a tool of conflict and humanitarian crisis.
“The deliberate targeting of water infrastructure, such as the Kakhovka plant, not only undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty but also disrupts the ecological balance of the entire region,” Gvozdiy noted.
He further highlighted the destruction of critical reservoirs, including Kakhovka, Oskil, Pechenizka, and Karachunivka, essential for water supply, irrigation, energy production, and ecosystem stability. The destruction of Kakhovka alone led to the release of hundreds of tons of phosphates and nitrates into the Black Sea, dealing irreversible damage to local biodiversity. Mines and hazardous elements carried downstream also pose continued threats to communities.
Despite significant challenges, Ukrhydroenergo strives to restore its facilities and manage water resources amid repeated infrastructure attacks, disrupting energy stability and drinking water systems.
Gvozdiy condemned russia’s actions as “ecocide” and urged the international community to support Ukraine in restoring ecosystems, securing water resources, and advancing environmental initiatives.
“Only through joint efforts can we restore environmental stability in Ukraine and ensure a secure future for the region,” he concluded.
