Russian peacekeepers to join demining operations in Khojaly

Russian peacekeepers are set to begin clearing mines from Azerbaijan's recently liberated territories.

According to Trend, Vugar Suleymanov, Chairman of the Board of the Azerbaijan Republic Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA), made the announcement during a briefing on April 4, the International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

He stated that work is already underway in this regard and that peacekeepers will initially focus on clearing landmines in the Khojaly district.

It is worth noting that during March, 299 anti-personnel mines, 114 anti-tank mines, and 1,254 unexploded ordnance were identified in various regions, including Tartar, Aghdara, Kalbajar, Aghdam, Khojaly, Khankendi, Lachin, Fuzuli, Shusha, Khojavand, Jabrayil, Gubadli, and Zangilan. So far, 6,094.6 hectares have been cleared of mines and unexploded ordnance.

Unfortunately, from November 10th, 2020, to date, 350 people have fallen victim to mine explosions resulting in 65 deaths and 285 injuries.