The appropriations supplemental providing $61 billion of security assistance for Ukraine, passed by Congress and signed into law on April 24th, included nearly $100 million for demining and related programs. This funding will provide vital support to humanitarian demining efforts in Ukraine, which are critical to supporting recovery, resilience, and reconstruction even as the war continues.
As of July 2023, Ukraine is now the most heavily mined country in the world. HALO estimates that up to 2 million landmines may have been laid since February 2022, and the Ukrainian government estimates that up to 30% of the country is contaminated by landmines – endangering civilians and preventing families from returning home and communities from rebuilding. The extreme contamination of Ukrainian farmland is also threatening food security worldwide. However, with support from the U.S. State Department, HALO has been able to make significant progress towards mine clearance: over 3.15 million square meters of land have been released for safe use and over 19,000 mines and explosives have been destroyed. This $100 million for demining will help HALO and other demining organizations continue our critical mission.
HALO welcomes this latest funding packages and urges Congress to continue its support for the Ukrainian people as they fight against Russian aggression.
Click here to tell your Members of Congress to support demining efforts in Ukraine. Read more about HALO’s work in Ukraine here.
