NATO Veterans to Train Ukrainian Sappers in Critical Demining Effort

Ukraine has launched an advanced training programme for sappers, meeting international demining standards known as EOD 1-3. The initiative, supported by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, will be led by experienced veterans from NATO member states. The course aims to enhance the qualifications of Ukrainian security and defence forces in line with International Mine Action Standards.

A meeting between representatives from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Internal Affairs marked the official launch of the training. Colonel Oleh Shuvarskyi, deputy head of the Main Department of Mine Action, Civil Protection and Environmental Safety, highlighted the significance of the programme. He noted that approximately 139,000 square kilometres of Ukrainian land remain contaminated with explosive devices due to Russian military actions. Russian forces have been actively using modern engineering munitions not only against the Ukrainian army but also to target civilian infrastructure, critical facilities, and agricultural land.

The training will provide Ukrainian specialists with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience while incorporating the expertise of international partners. Colonel Shuvarskyi emphasised that this will enable Ukrainian sappers to conduct demining operations more efficiently and safely, ensuring greater security for both military personnel and civilians.

Humanitarian demining of liberated Ukrainian territories is being carried out solely by certified mine action operators. National capacity in this field has expanded significantly, with 23 operational units working under the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the State Security Service, and the State Emergency Service. Additionally, 25 other government organisations are in the process of obtaining certification and will soon participate in demining efforts.

In a related development, Ukraine has also received modern French SDZ demining machines to assist in clearing hazardous areas. This technological support, combined with NATO-led training, is expected to accelerate the removal of explosive threats across the country.