Russia, Ukraine Naval Warfare Killing Famed Black Sea Dolphins

The naval warfare fought between Russia and Ukraine is destroying the habitat of dolphin species such as Black Sea harbor porpoise, bottlenose dolphin, and short-beaked common dolphin.

In a Facebook post, Ukraine’s Ombudsman Ludmyla Denisova said several dead mammals have already surfaced in the Black Sea, which is home to thousands of dolphins.

“The use of military sonar is especially dangerous for the dolphins. As a result of the radiation of navigation devices, animals cease to receive echoes, which leads to their death,” she wrote, adding: “The entire flora and fauna of the Black and Azov Seas are in danger from the aggressive actions of rashists. The occupiers violated Article 35 of the Additional Protocol to the Geneva Convention of August 12, 1949, relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts (Protocol No. 1) of June 8, 1977, regarding the proper treatment of the environment during hostilities.”

Ukrainian missile attack on Russian Warship, Moskva and earlier attack on a Russian Navy supply ship which led to their sinking may have contributed to the destruction of the dolphins' habitat. While the Moskva went down with its stern on fire and an unspecified number of missiles either exploded or whole, the supply ship was reportedly carrying amphibious vehicles, guns and ammunition.