Japan to join multinational project for demining in Ukraine
Illustrative photo (Photo: Getty Images)
Japan intends to join a multinational project for demining in Ukraine. Tokyo will provide equipment to Kyiv and assist in personnel training, reports Kyodo.
Within the framework of the project led by the United States, the Ukrainian Defense Contact Group, Japan's Self-Defense Forces will provide Ukraine with demining equipment and collaborate in personnel training, according to a source in the Japanese government.
It's also mentioned that Japan's Defense Minister, Minoru Kihara, is soon expected to announce the country's plan to join a group focusing on information and technology to aid in enhancing Ukraine's cybersecurity.
Japan cannot provide direct military assistance
This move was made as Japan intensified efforts to provide non-military assistance to the Ukrainian side, including potential reconstruction, due to Japan's strict rules on arms and ammunition export according to its Constitution renouncing war, preventing it from offering direct military aid.
Anti-mine equipment
Anti-mine equipment details haven't been disclosed yet. However, Japan might be asked to provide defense equipment for mine clearance, the export of which is prohibited by internal rules, as stated in the publication.
Japan has already supplied mine-detecting devices to Ukraine and conducted training programs for its demining personnel.
Additionally, Tokyo has agreed to collaborate with Cambodia on demining Russian unexploded ordnance and bombs in Ukraine.
30% of Ukraine's territory is mine-contaminated
Approximately 30% of Ukraine's territory is estimated by Ukrainian authorities to be mine-contaminated or littered with unexploded ordnance.
It's anticipated that clearing them will take at least 10 years.
Earlier reports indicated Japan's plan to allocate 160 million euros to support Ukraine's economic recovery projects.
