The Human Cost of Mine Contamination in Ukraine
Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion, 1,645 civilians in Ukraine have been wounded by landmines and other explosive remnants of war. The national Ministry of Defense confirms that 170 of the injured were children and 1,475 were adults. These figures underscore how explosive hazards continue to threaten lives long after the front lines shift.
Every incident is logged by the Main Directorate for Mine Action, Civil Protection and Environmental Safety into a centralized mine action information management system. That data helps authorities analyze risks and coordinate efforts to prevent future casualties. In addition, law enforcement opens criminal proceedings for each civilian mine strike, treating it as Russia's violation of the rules and customs of war.
Assistance to Survivors and International Engagement
From 2023 through 2026, 185 individuals injured in mine-related incidents received support from international organizations, totaling more than 3.4 million hryvnias. The assistance includes:
- coverage of medical treatment costs;
- rehabilitation services;
- remote-learning and remote-work tools for people with mine-blast injuries.
Compensation payments are carried out using the database of the National Mine Action Authority, with information supplied by regional military administrations, local units of the State Emergency Service, and the National Police.
Mine action activities are conducted under Protocol II and Protocol V of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. The database and an interactive map support government and humanitarian organizations in warning residents about the dangers of explosive ordnance, an essential element of public safety in Ukraine.
The ongoing toll on civilians makes clear why Ukraine must continue investing in demining and risk awareness. These casualties are a stark reminder of the destructive legacy that war leaves behind.
Cooperation with international partners is crucial for delivering aid to survivors and for raising public awareness of the threats posed by explosive remnants. A well-functioning monitoring and rapid-response system can lower the risks in affected regions and protect human life.
In addition to the ongoing threat posed by landmines, recent military actions have further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. For instance, deadly strikes across major cities have resulted in significant casualties and destruction, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures and support for affected civilians.