Ukraine is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world, with over 133,000 km² (about 22% of its territory) of land potentially contaminated by explosive ordnance.
According to a statement dated April 4, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) deminers are working tirelessly to neutralize these threats, having removed over 644,000 explosive devices, saving countless lives.
“Ukraine today is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world! While our diplomats mobilize global support on the world stage, SESU deminers fight a “silent war” every single minute for every square meter of safety. This is a global challenge where numbers speak louder than words.” Read part of the statement.
The authority has appreciated International support for playing a key role in tackling this hidden danger left behind by Russia’s actions amid the ongoing war.
Ukraine Explosive Ordances Most Affected Victims
According to SESU, children are among the most vulnerable because they return to live in damaged or previously occupied areas, attend schools, and use outdoor spaces that may be contaminated.
They also move through unstable environments where risks are not always visible. Curiosity, combined with insufficient information, further increases the danger.
As a result, authorities in Ukraine are carrying out educational activities on the risks posed by unexploded ordnance in regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson, currently reaching over 10,800 people, including both children and adults.
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The government announced plans to use activities for young children, employing age-appropriate methods such as games, stories, songs, and interactive materials to help them recognize dangers and adopt safe behaviors without instilling fear.
At the same time, teachers, parents, and communities are also engaged to reinforce the dissemination of accurate information and safe practices.
Alongside this educational work, humanitarian demining operations continue.
How Ukraine is Working to Control Loss of Lives Through Explosive Ordances
The government has adopted a long-term strategy to return 80% of contaminated land to productive use within 10 years.
In Ukraine today, women are increasingly involved in demining: around one-third of personnel are women – three times more than in 2021.
They work daily to clear agricultural land, roads, and residential areas, helping to restore safety and access for communities.
Additionally, the government is using specialized technical survey dogs to detect explosive odors, which are faster than metal detectors in certain environments.
The use of remote-controlled heavy and light demining machines, such as the Germina, is increasing, with domestic production of such equipment also growing.
History of Ukraine: Explosive Ordnance in the Country
Ukraine’s contamination by explosive ordnance became intense after Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
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Therefore, three years later, Ukraine was estimated to be littered with hundreds of thousands of explosive remnants.
In April 2024, the country’s National Mine Action Authority (NMAA) reported that 156,000 km² of Ukrainian territory had been affected by conflict and would require surveying, adding that more than 100 km² were heavily affected.
Countrywide, the Ukrainian authorities reported 763 accidents by explosive ordnance claiming 1,099 victims since 2023.
