Today, Ukraine has become the most heavily mined country in the world since World War II. According to estimates, over 139,000 square kilometers — roughly 23% of the country’s total area — may be contaminated with landmines and other explosive hazards. What’s most terrifying is that these threats are often invisible. They lie silently underfoot — on roads, in fields, in backyards. In Ukraine, various types of mines are used — from old Soviet "butterfly" mines, which can be mistaken for toys, to modern anti-tank mines that detonate at the slightest touch or movement.
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, at least 359 civilians have been killed by mines. Around a thousand more have been injured, including at least 18 children. But these numbers are likely incomplete. Many areas remain inaccessible, and the full extent of the danger is still unknown.
More than one million landmines have already been scattered across Ukrainian territory. Add to that tens of thousands of unexploded shells, grenades, and mortars, and you get a picture of a hidden but deadly war. The most dangerous areas remain the frontlines and recently de-occupied regions, where people are only beginning to return.
Demining is a slow but daily struggle. In August 2025 alone, Ministry of Defense specialists cleared nearly 6,000 hectares and neutralized over 8,000 explosive devices. Since the start of the invasion, more than 458,000 such hazards have been defused. There are currently 119 certified demining operators working across the country, and more are being trained — the need is enormous.
This work is already making a difference. Over 2,000 square kilometers of farmland have been returned to productive use. But in the context of the overall threat, it’s just a small step.
The issue of landmines is not only about safety — it has become political. Ukraine has officially withdrawn from the Ottawa Convention, an international treaty that bans the use of anti-personnel mines. This gives the country the right to use them in defense. At the same time, the government emphasizes that humanitarian demining remains a top priority. It is essential not only for safety but for a return to normal life — so people can farm, reopen schools, and walk the streets without fear.
Full clearance of contaminated areas will take years — perhaps even decades. But every cleared field is a step closer to recovery. To the day when people can walk down the street and no longer fear that death is silently waiting beneath their feet.