Italy and UNDP Commit €1.5 Million to Boost Humanitarian Demining in Ukraine
Ukraine has secured €1.5 million in funding through a new agreement with the Government of Italy and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to advance humanitarian demining operations across war-affected areas.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to Ukraine's Ministry of Economy.
The agreement, signed in Kyiv, designates Ukraine’s Ministry of Economy as the main beneficiary and is aimed at accelerating the implementation of the National Mine Action Strategy.
The funding will help clear agricultural land, rebuild infrastructure, and restore safe conditions for civilians returning to liberated territories.
“Humanitarian demining is the starting point of Ukraine’s economic recovery and a critical humanitarian priority,” said First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yuliia Svyrydenko. “This contribution from Italy, in partnership with UNDP, reflects the power of international solidarity.”
According to government estimates, approximately 138,500 square kilometers (53,282 square miles) of Ukrainian territory remain potentially contaminated with landmines and other explosive hazards, posing one of the gravest risks to public safety and long-term reconstruction.
Italian Ambassador to Ukraine Carlo Formosa, who took part in the official signing ceremony in Kyiv, emphasized: “Italy is proud to stand with Ukraine in its demining efforts. Our support underlines our firm commitment to the country’s safety and reconstruction.”
UNDP, in close coordination with Ukraine’s Ministry of Economy and the National Mine Action Authority, has been at the forefront of introducing advanced technologies such as drones, remote sensors, and artificial intelligence to detect and neutralize explosive hazards since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
The funding will also support improved information management systems and tailored training programs for veterans, persons with disabilities, and those affected by mines.
As The Gaze reported earlier, Ukrainian music group Ziferblat, who represented Ukraine at Eurovision 2025, raised ₴2 million to purchase robotic demining vehicles.