Since the beginning of full-scale Russian aggression in Ukraine, more than 5,308 square kilometers of territory have been demined and surveyed. This was reported by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, emphasizing the scale of mine countermeasures and its importance for the country's security.

During the regular meeting of the National Mine Action Authority, measures planned for 2024 were considered. The main attention was paid to humanitarian demining of de-occupied territories and survey of agricultural lands contaminated by explosive objects. This is an important part of the economic recovery process, as such land is needed to return to agricultural activity.

According to information from the Ministry of Defense, in 2023, a non-technical survey was conducted in 59 territorial communities, identifying 235 square kilometers as likely to be contaminated by mines and other dangerous objects. However, the work continues, and active humanitarian demining is already underway at 282 sites with a total area of ​​17.5 square kilometers. Currently, 88 plots with a total area of ​​7.23 square kilometers have been transferred to local communities.

One of the key areas of work is the clearing of agricultural land. In 2023, it was possible to demine 2,059 square kilometers of such territories, which made it possible to return them to productive use, in particular for sowing and cultivation. This is important for the country's economy and ensuring food security.

It is important to note that as a result of the initial non-technical survey, the total area of ​​contaminated territories decreased from 156,000 square kilometers to 142,000. According to Lieutenant General Ivan Gavrylyuk, this result is a significant achievement in the fight against the mine threat.

In addition to work on land, the issue of demining the Ukrainian sea was discussed. Ukraine plans to receive three more specialized ships for demining in 2024, which will increase the efficiency of operations in sea waters. An important role in this process is played by the support of Germany, which has already provided specialized equipment for the detection and neutralization of explosive objects at sea sites.

Demining is an extremely important stage in the reconstruction of the country after the aggression, and the expansion of international cooperation in this area will contribute to the acceleration of work both on land and at sea.