The EU has donated two GCS-200 mine-clearing machines and other specialised demining equipment worth over €1.8 million to Ukraine.
This is the latest delivery in the framework of the European Union’s €25 million support package for humanitarian demining announced at the EU-Ukraine Summit of February 2023. The package is designed to meet the urgent needs of Ukraine’s state mine action operators, ranging from basic equipment for demining teams to pyrotechnic vehicles and robotic demining systems.
“The EU supports Ukraine in meeting the challenges posed by mine contamination, including through the provision of urgently needed equipment. Our work together saves lives, gives hope and contributes to a better future for Ukraine,” said Rémi Duflot, from the EU Delegation to Ukraine.
Due to Russia’s war of aggression, Ukraine is among the countries most contaminated by mines and explosive remnants of war worldwide.
Earlier this year, the State Special Transport Service received a first DOK-ING MV-10 mine-clearing system, which was named “Nadiya” – hope. In keeping with the tradition, the two new machines will be called “Vira” – faith and “Lyubov” – love. Demining of areas liberated from Russian occupation is essential for Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. It allows for the safe return of the civilian population and relaunch of economic activities, notably in the transport, trade, and agricultural sectors.
