The Security Service of Ukraine is preparing a large body of evidence proving that Russia is deliberately using anti-personnel mines against Ukrainian civilians.
This constitutes a deliberate violation of international law, the laws, and customs of war.
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, over 1,000 civilians have been affected by explosive devices, with 297 fatalities, including many children.
Once the SSU has gathered sufficient evidence, the matter will be referred to the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
Investigations have revealed that Russian forces intentionally set up mine traps near or within populated areas in conflict zones.
To conceal the explosives, the Russian forces use various common objects, including children's toys and candy boxes.
Additionally, Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups frequently set up minefields to cover their retreat from frontline and border areas of Ukraine.
The majority of instances of mine traps targeting civilians have been recorded in Donetsk and Kharkiv regions.
The mines include:
- PFM-1 – a pressure-activated mine (known as "butterfly mine"). Its specific shape makes it hard to detect. When triggered, it causes severe leg injuries, often leading to death;
- PMN-2 – also a pressure-activated mine. It typically results in the loss of the limb that steps on it;
- OZM-72 – a bounding fragmentation mine (known as a "frog mine"). It jumps nearly 1 meter high upon activation, scattering shrapnel within a 25-meter radius;
- MON-50 – a directional anti-personnel mine banned by the Ottawa Convention.
As part of an extensive criminal investigation under Article 438, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (violation of the laws and customs of war), investigative actions are ongoing to bring the war criminals to justice.
The SSU urges Ukrainian citizens to follow safety protocols. If you discover an explosive or suspicious item, do not touch it, remain calm, remember the location, and report it to law enforcement or special services. Call 112 or 101.
The investigation is conducted under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General.
