Black Sea military activity threatens marine mammals

Military activities and frequent attacks on ships in the Black Sea are posing severe risks to marine mammals, according to Lyudmil Ikonomov, Vice-Chairman of the Black Sea Advisory Council to the EU.

Ikonomov warns that underwater noise from explosions disrupts the natural behavior of dolphins and other cetaceans, who rely on sound for communication and orientation. This noise can cause them to lose direction and struggle to find food.

Beyond acoustic disruption, the expert highlighted risks of fuel spills and environmental pollution from ship strikes, which can impact the food chain and habitats for years. Additionally, military debris, such as downed drones, is increasing waste in the sea, potentially causing long-term ecological damage that could last for decades.