The problem of mines and explosive remnants of war became especially acute after full scale russian invasion into Ukraine broke out on 24 February, although russian federation has been contaminating the Ukrainian land for 8 previous years in a row.
While the first wave of russian military aggression against Ukraine in 2014 left about 16 thousands square kilometers of Luhansk and Donetsk regions needing clearance, today's preliminary estimate is 80 thousands of square kilometers of the Ukraine territory.
This was reported in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement on the occasion of the International day for mine awareness and assistance in mine action.
It’s also mentioned that russian forces use prohibited anti-personnel mines, in particular, some of the new models such as POM-3 (“Medallion”) and others.
The Ministry emphasized that the occupiers massively lay booby-traps that are banned under international law, mine food facilities, private houses and dead bodies while retreating. Besides, the enemy mines toys and shiny objects that may attract children’s attention.
It’s also noted that the units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) are carrying out demining operations on the reclaimed territories. However, it’s stressed that the main work will start after the full withdrawal of the russian forces from Ukrainian soil.
The SESU has published footage from the Kyivshchyna (Kyiv region) strewn by mines, shells, grenades and other deadly “presents” from russian army. As the service comments, they serve as real agitation materials for the International day for mine awareness.
“We would be so glad to keep informing about its meaning using only layouts, posters and models. And we never wanted our own cities and villages, our beautiful Ukrainian land to be the embodiment of this Day that’s meant to attract the world’s attention to the dreadful consequences of military conflicts for civilians,” – the SESU mentioned.
It also stressed that explosive technicians are still demining the contaminated areas and yet again called on Ukrainians to not forget about the rules of handling explosive objects.
“Watch your step and make sure to inform the rescue workers about any dangerous items you find,” – the rescuers added.
As it has been mentioned before, the occupiers started laying innovative mines with seismic sensors on Ukrainian territory.
After reclaiming the Kyivska region from russian invaders the Deputy Minister of Defense Hanna Malyar emphasized that civilians should not come back to the freed areas just yet. According to her, the demining of the Kyiv region would take up to 10 days.