Switzerland will transfer three heavy demining machines to Ukraine

Switzerland will transfer three heavy demining machines to Ukraine. The decision was announced during bilateral negotiations and is part of Switzerland's comprehensive programme to support humanitarian demining in Ukraine.

"Heavy demining machines are one of the most needed types of equipment. They perform mechanical clearance that makes subsequent manual work significantly safer. Three new machines from Switzerland will strengthen our capacity in the most contaminated regions," said Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.

The machines are designed for mechanical preparation of territories for clearance — they process soil, destroy vegetation, and detonate surface explosive items. Each machine can process several hectares of territory per day.

"Switzerland is one of the most active partners in supporting humanitarian demining in Ukraine. The total volume of Swiss support exceeds 100 million Swiss francs. The transfer of heavy machines is a concrete contribution to increasing Ukraine's demining capacity," noted the Swiss representative.

The machines will be handed over to Ukrainian mine action operators and deployed to the most contaminated regions. The personnel who will operate them will undergo specialised training.

"We are building a comprehensive system — machines, specialists, and procedures. Every new machine increases our capacity and brings us closer to the goal of returning 80% of contaminated lands to productive use within 10 years," emphasised the Deputy Minister.