“The authorities” of the Russian Federation in the occupied part of Kherson region not only force farmers to sell their harvested grain for next to nothing, but have also reached out to unique natural resources.
According to recent reports, the invaders have destroyed the Askania-Nova reserve in Kherson region. This once beautiful and protected area, home to rare and endangered species, has now been turned into a wasteland by the occupying forces.
Askania-Nova was established in 1898 and was one of the first nature reserves in the world. It was known for its diverse landscapes, including steppes, forests, and wetlands, and was home to over 3,000 species of plants and animals. The reserve was also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
However, since the Russian occupation of Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine, the situation in Askania-Nova has drastically changed. The invaders have not only destroyed the reserve’s infrastructure, but have also been illegally logging and poaching in the area. This has led to a significant decline in the reserve’s biodiversity and has put many species at risk of extinction.
Moreover, the occupying forces have also been exploiting the natural resources of the reserve for their own benefit. They have been illegally extracting oil and gas, damaging the delicate ecosystems and polluting the environment. This not only poses a threat to the flora and fauna of the reserve, but also to the health and well-being of the local population.
The destruction of Askania-Nova is not only a tragedy for the environment, but also for the local community. The reserve was not only a source of pride and identity for the people of Kherson region, but also provided jobs and economic opportunities through eco-tourism. With its destruction, the livelihoods of many have been taken away.
The international community has condemned the destruction of Askania-Nova and called for the invaders to stop their illegal activities in the reserve. However, the Russian authorities have turned a blind eye to these pleas and continue to exploit and destroy the natural resources of the occupied territories.
It is time for the world to take action and put an end to the destruction of Askania-Nova and other natural reserves in occupied territories. The protection of these unique and irreplaceable ecosystems should be a priority for all nations. It is not only a matter of preserving the environment, but also of protecting the rights and well-being of local communities.
In conclusion, the destruction of Askania-Nova by the occupying forces is a tragic loss for the environment and the people of Kherson region. It is a clear violation of international laws and must be stopped immediately. Let us all join hands in preserving and protecting our precious natural resources for the present and future generations.
