Russian destruction of Kakhovka dam could deprive Crimean residents of drinking water, says Yermak
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The overnight destruction of the Kakhovka dam in Ukraine’s southern Kherson Oblast by Russian invasion forces on June 6 could potentially affect water supplies to the residents of Ukraine’s Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula, a top Ukrainian official has said.
Andriy Yermak, the head of the Presidential Office, in a statement posted on Telegram on June 6 said the Russian action was “ecocide.” He underscored the commitment of both central and regional authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of affected individuals.
“The Russians will be held accountable for any possible deprivation of drinking water for the people in southern Kherson and Crimea, the potential destruction of populated areas, and harm to the biosphere,” Yermak wrote.
“Furthermore, their actions pose a threat to the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant.”
The destruction of the Kakhovka dam and the hydroelectric power plant on its eastern end by Russian forces occurred during the night of June 6, immediately placing cities and towns downstream on the Dnipro River at risk of flooding. The peak of the outflow from the reservoir is expected around noon.
In response to the situation, the Kherson Oblast Military Administration has issued an urgent evacuation order for residents in areas at risk of flooding.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for an emergency meeting of the National Security and Defense Council and reassured the public that all of the necessary emergency services are actively working at the scene.
“I urge everyone to share only official and verified information,” President Zelenskyy said.
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