Veterans of NATO member states' armies will train Ukrainian sappers

A specialized training course for Ukrainian sappers, focusing on Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Levels 1-3, will be delivered by veterans of the armies of NATO member states. During the training, specialists from the Security and Defence Forces of Ukraine will enhance their qualifications in accordance with the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS).

This initiative has been made possible through financial support from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). 

Representatives from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Internal Affairs have held a working meeting to establish the course. During the event, Colonel Oleh Shuvarskyi, Head of the Mine Action Department and Deputy Head of the Main Directorate of Mine Action, Civil Protection, and Environmental Safety, emphasized that this course serves as a critical tool for training future professionals in the detection and neutralization of explosive ordnance.

The Ministry of Defence representative highlighted that approximately 139,000 km² of Ukrainian territory is potentially contaminated by explosive ordnance, with enemy troops employing advanced engineered munitions not only against the Armed Forces of Ukraine but also targeting civilian populations.

“The enemy is mining infrastructure facilities, critical assets, and agricultural lands. Therefore, it is particularly significant that this course will provide our specialists with not only theoretical knowledge and practical skills but also insights into the experiences of partner nations and our Security and Defense Forces. This will enable them to execute their tasks with greater efficiency and safety, ensuring the protection of civilian populations and their fellow service members,” stated Colonel Oleh Shuvarskyi.

He explained that humanitarian demining in the de-occupied territories of Ukraine is carried out exclusively by mine action operators. According to him, the national capacity of governmental mine action operators has significantly increased, with 23 such operators currently operational, including units from the Armed Forces, the State Special Transport Service, and the State Emergency Service. An additional 25 governmental organizations are undergoing certification and are expected to be accredited as mine action operators in the near future.