Ukraine switches to digital planning of humanitarian demining: priorities for 2026 set

In 2026, humanitarian demining of Ukraine's de-occupied territories will be planned using a new approach – with the use of modern digital solutions.

This issue was discussed during the final meeting of the National Mine Action Authority, chaired by Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Lieutenant General Mykola Shevtsov.

A new initiative was the presentation of a digital platform developed by Ukrainian experts and scientists in the fields of ecology, economics, geoinformation systems and data engineering. The platform allows, based on the analysis of large data sets, to prioritise the demining of agricultural land – that is, to direct resources to where the clearance of territories is most urgent.

During the meeting, participants were informed about the results of the implementation of demining plans in 2025. From 1 January to 30 December, the demining units of the Security and Defence Forces surveyed more than 490 km² of agricultural land in nine regions of Ukraine, of which 367 km² were cleared of explosive objects.

Separately, members of the National Authority approved the draft Plan for Humanitarian Demining of Deoccupied Territories for 2026. The document was prepared taking into account the proposals of all mine action actors and current security risks associated with the ongoing armed aggression of the russian federation.

During the meeting, the updated personnel composition of the National Authority and its work plan for 2026 were also approved. Summing up, Lieutenant General Mykola Shevtsov emphasised that the National Authority would continue to consistently develop the state's capabilities in the field of mine action.

"This work will help reduce the risks associated with explosive objects and minimise the threat of accidents," said Lieutenant General Mykola Shevtsov.