A training course for Ukrainian sappers on EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) levels 1-3 is being introduced, with instruction provided by veterans of NATO member states' armies. During the training, specialists from Ukraine’s Security and Defense Forces will enhance their qualifications according to the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS).
This project was made possible with financial support from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Representatives of the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Internal Affairs have already held a working meeting to launch the course.
At the meeting, Colonel Oleh Shuvarskyi, head of the Mine Action Directorate and deputy chief of the Main Directorate of Mine Action, Civil Protection, and Environmental Safety, emphasized that such a course is a crucial tool for training future professionals in detecting and neutralizing explosive devices.
A representative of the Ministry of Defense noted that approximately 139,000 km² of Ukrainian territory is potentially contaminated with explosive ordnance and that Russian forces use modern engineering munitions not only against the Ukrainian Armed Forces but also against civilians.
"The enemy mines infrastructure, critical facilities, and agricultural land. Therefore, it is especially important that during this course, our specialists will receive not only theoretical knowledge and practical skills but also study the experience of partner countries and our security and defense forces. This will enable them to carry out their tasks effectively and safely, ensuring the security of civilians and their fellow soldiers," said Oleh Shuvarskyi.
He added that humanitarian demining of de-occupied territories in Ukraine is carried out exclusively by mine action operators. According to him, the national capacity of government mine action operators has significantly increased, now totaling 23 units, including the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the State Special Transport Service (DSST), and the State Emergency Service (DSNS). An additional 25 government organizations are undergoing certification and will soon become mine action operators as well.
