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Statement by Mariana Ostrovska,

Head of the Department for International Relations, Science and Public 

Relations, State Forest Resources Agency of Ukraine,

at the 21st session of the UN Forum on Forests 

(11 May 2026, New York)

 

 

Mr. Chairman,

Forests in Ukraine cover 10.4 million hectares, representing an important component of the country's natural landscape.

Given the impact on natural ecosystems caused by the war of aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, nearly a third of Ukraine’s forests have been damaged to varying degrees. The ecological system of Ukraine is not only the property of Ukraine, but also of Europe and the whole world.

I would like to highlight that, as of today, there are up to 1 million hectares of forests in the temporarily occupied territory or the territory where hostilities are taking place. These days, one of the biggest problems of forestry in Ukraine is contamination of 450 thousand hectares of territories by unexploded ordnance. The estimated total amount of damage and losses is more than one hundred and fifty-seven billion US dollars.

As we speak, the aggressor continues to destroy Ukrainian cities and villages, kill Ukrainians, and burn forests. As of now, forest fires covering about 40 thousand hectares have been recorded in government-controlled territory as a result of the armed aggression. Our foresters continue to plant forests and rescue wildlife even under rocket fire.

In 2025, we restored 26 thousand hectares of forest and new forests were planted on an area of 1.2 thousand hectares. Within the framework of the President of Ukraine program "Green Country", 1 billion trees were planted during 4 years. We harvested 14.1 million cubic meters of wood, which demonstrates the practice of sustainable forest use, as the annual growth of wood exceeds the volume of harvesting. We are implementing the principles of close-to-nature forestry.

Despite the wartime challenges, the forest industry of Ukraine demonstrated strong European integration achievements. The European Union has assigned Ukraine the highest status: "a country with a low risk of deforestation and forest degradation." We are fully prepared to meet the requirements of the EUDR and ensure the traceability of timber.

We remain committed to advancing digital transformation in the forest sector. Currently, the components of the unique digital chain of traceability of the Ukrainian timber market have been developed and implemented.

The full-scale restoration of Ukraine’s forest ecosystems is our main priority. In this context, we look forward to expanding and strengthening cooperation with the entire civilized world to support the forestry sector of Ukraine and Europe.

Thank you.