The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has announced restrictions on planning new humanitarian demining activities in designated territories across six regions of the country. The decision was made by the National Mine Action Authority, chaired by Deputy Minister of Defense Vasyl Shkurakov, during an emergency meeting due to security risks.
Reasons and Details of the Decision
As emphasized by the ministry, the introduced restrictions do not mean a complete halt to clearing territories of explosive ordnance. Humanitarian demining remains a key priority even in frontline areas, but specialized agencies are shifting to a risk-based approach. This helps strike a balance between returning land to safe economic use and protecting the lives of deminers.
The new rules apply to potentially contaminated areas located 20 to 50 kilometers from the line of combat contact and the state border with the Russian Federation, where demining operations have not yet begun. A separate decision suspends initial non-technical surveys of territories within the 50-kilometer zone by third-party operators.
Exceptions and Priorities in Frontline Zones
In areas close to the front line, priority is given to rapid response measures aimed at protecting the lives and health of civilians. Unplanned demining operations remain permitted upon justified requests, provided that the security and operational situation allows and they do not interfere with the Defense Forces. Ongoing operations that have already started will be completed under proper security conditions.
Government-backed mine action operators will conduct surveys within the 50-kilometer zone. If government resources are insufficient, non-profit non-governmental operators may be involved on a voluntary and consensual basis.
Coordination and Prospects for Resuming Work
Future organization of land clearance will rely on continuous monitoring of the security and operational situation. The ministry noted the importance of close coordination among all participants to minimize risks. All restrictions are temporary and will be reviewed based on changing security conditions in specific regions.
