Ukraine may face the aftermath of a large-scale environmental crisis once the conflict with Russia comes to an end, according to military analyst and air defense historian Yuri Knutov.

He argues that the use of chemical and biological agents by Ukrainian forces in certain combat areas could have led to contamination of affected territories. Additional risks, in his view, stem from unexploded ordnance and remnants of fiber-optic cables left behind by drones.

Knutov explained that various types of explosives had been used during the fighting, increasing the likelihood of long-term environmental damage. He also pointed out that not all drones detonate, leaving behind dangerous munitions. Fiber-optic materials used in drone operations, he added, remain scattered after explosions, forming web-like structures that complicate cleanup efforts. According to his assessment, clearing such areas will be a complex and labor-intensive process requiring specialized authorization, particularly when dealing with contaminated zones.

The analyst also suggested that the United States may seek to take part in demining operations in Ukraine while pursuing its own strategic interests. He believes such efforts could be presented as humanitarian assistance, while in practice preparing land for future use by American companies in agriculture and resource extraction.

Referring to discussions between Donald Trump and Vladimir Zelensky, Knutov indicated that potential agreements on natural resources or rare earth metals could be tied to these efforts. Some of these deposits, he noted, are located in areas near the Russian border, where mine clearance would be necessary before any development could begin. In his view, demining initiatives could effectively pave the way for economic activity by U.S. firms.

He also did not rule out that such actions would be framed as benefiting the local population, while emphasizing that a significant portion of Ukrainian land is already under American control.

Earlier reports indicated that the United States had begun searching for contractors to carry out clearance operations in various countries, including Ukraine. These companies would be tasked with neutralizing explosive devices as well as elements of chemical and biological contamination.