Foreign partners have provided over $700 million for demining efforts in Ukraine, with key donors including the U.S., Switzerland, Norway, EU countries, and Japan. The demining coalition for Ukraine consists of around 20 countries, as nearly one-third of Ukraine’s territory, approximately 174,000 square kilometers, has been mined since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Minefields have played a significant role in preventing the liberation of occupied territories and halting the 2023 counteroffensive. The funds allocated by these partners are intended for demining projects in Ukraine from 2022 to 2027, with the Ukrainian government reporting that mine-related explosions have killed 296 civilians and injured 665 others.
At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Russia had a stockpile of 26 million landmines, making it the largest in the world according to various estimates. Russia’s use of landmines has made clearing them extremely difficult, as they are hidden in fields, underneath the soil, in forests, and even in the ruins of cities. The Ukrainian government has pledged to spearhead demining efforts in collaboration with top experts and emergency response services. The Sectoral Working Group, which includes donors, and the Mine Action Cluster, established in March 2024, will serve as central platforms for programmatic coordination among relevant actors to address the extensive presence of landmines in the country.
In March 2022, shortly after the initiation of Russia’s full-scale invasion, a cell phone video captured two “Zemledeliye” mobile mine-laying systems believed to be stationed in Kharkiv Oblast. These systems were set up in a previously farmland area, indicating Russia’s strategic placement of landmines in various regions of Ukraine. The deployment of landmines by the Russian forces poses a significant threat to the safety and security of civilians as well as Ukrainian troops. Clearing these landmines will be a challenging and time-consuming process, requiring extensive coordination and resources from both local and international entities.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, exacerbated by Russia’s invasion and use of landmines, has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis. The impact of landmines on civilian populations has been devastating, with hundreds of deaths and injuries reported due to mine-related explosions. The need for demining efforts to ensure the safety and security of Ukrainians is urgent and critical, as the presence of landmines continues to pose a threat to lives and livelihoods in the country. International support and cooperation are essential in addressing this pressing issue and mitigating the dangers posed by landmines in Ukraine.
The collaboration between the Ukrainian government and international partners in demining efforts showcases the importance of solidarity and collective action in addressing complex security challenges. By pooling resources, expertise, and technology, countries can work together to clear landmines and make affected areas safe for civilian populations. The allocation of funds by foreign donors for demining projects in Ukraine demonstrates a commitment to supporting the country in its recovery and reconstruction efforts. Continued support for independent journalism in Ukraine is crucial in raising awareness about the impact of landmines and advocating for the protection of civilian lives.
As Ukraine continues to navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict and the presence of landmines, the need for sustained international support remains paramount. By standing in solidarity with Ukraine and supporting demining efforts, countries can contribute to the country’s recovery and rehabilitation. The commitment of foreign partners to providing financial assistance for demining projects underscores the importance of upholding humanitarian principles and protecting the rights and safety of civilians in conflict-affected areas. Joining the fight to support independent journalism in Ukraine is a vital step in raising awareness about the impact of landmines and advocating for peace and security in the region.
