The impact of combat actions on forest ecosystems: Challenges for environmental, national security and state resilience

This study aimed to analyse the impact of active military actions on biodiversity and forest resources. The research employed the following methods: analysis of satellite data from open sources and media reports, as well as methods of generalisation and systematisation. It was established that the accumulation of dry biomass following fires has contributed to the spread of wildfires. The formation of crater-like depressions due to explosions altered the composition of forest stands and the water balance, affecting the region’s water supply and leading to either waterlogging or desiccation. The study’s findings indicated that in 2024, following shelling in a forested area near the village of Buda-Babynetska in the Kyiv Region, the forest cover within a 25-metre radius was destroyed. This included plant species such as Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), pedunculate oak (Quercus robur), and silver birch (Betula pendula). The analysis of information from open sources and media reports demonstrated that ruderal species, such as common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), had colonised damaged areas. This indicated active vegetation establishment by species capable of rapid recovery following disturbances. In explosion crater zones, revegetation processes progressed slowly. For instance, in one of the craters within Hetmanskyi National Natural Park in Sumy Region, only a few specimens of ragweed and black locust were recorded, while another crater remained devoid of any vegetation. To facilitate forest restoration in Ukraine following the cessation of active hostilities, the application of mycorrhizal fungi, the use of container-grown seedlings, and hydroseeding were recommended. The findings on the condition of forested areas may contribute to the development of strategies for the conservation and restoration of fire-damaged forest ecosystems