Two Ukrainian deminers working for Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) were killed and several others injured in a Russian missile strike near the city of Kryvyj Rih. According to NPA Secretary General Raymond Johansen, the attack occurred in the village of Novopetrivka, marking a significant escalation in the risks faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones. Military authorities in the Kherson region identified the weapon used as a Russian Iskander-M missile.
Why humanitarian demining operations are increasingly targeted
The strike on the NPA team follows a pattern of attacks against organizations tasked with clearing explosive remnants of war. According to reports from the Kherson military administration, the use of precision-guided missiles like the Iskander-M against demining crews suggests a disregard for the protected status of humanitarian personnel under international law. Norwegian Development Minister Åsmund Aukrust condemned the act, calling it a “clear breach of the fundamental principles of international law” and a failure to respect the civilian nature of demining efforts.
How this incident compares to previous attacks
This is not the first time international demining organizations have been targeted in Ukraine. In the autumn of 2023, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) reported that its staff were hit by a missile strike in the Chernihiv region. That attack resulted in two deaths and three injuries. At the time, regional governor Vjatjeslav Tjaus characterized the incident as a “targeted attack,” noting that the area had been previously contaminated with Russian mines before the humanitarian teams attempted to clear them.
| Organization | Location | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Norwegian People’s Aid | Novopetrivka | 2 killed, several injured |
| Danish Refugee Council | Chernihiv | 2 killed, 3 injured |
What happens to demining operations in active war zones?
Organizations like Norwegian People’s Aid, which employs over 450 staff members in Ukraine, must now balance the urgent need for land clearance with the safety of their personnel. Raymond Johansen stated that the organization is currently focused on supporting the families of the victims and the survivors. The incident highlights the extreme danger inherent in humanitarian work when frontlines remain fluid and missile strikes reach deep into civilian-managed areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are humanitarian deminers combatants?
No. Humanitarian deminers are civilians who clear mines to protect non-combatants and restore agricultural or residential land. Targeting them is considered a violation of international humanitarian law.
What is an Iskander-M missile?
The Iskander-M is a mobile, short-range ballistic missile system used by the Russian military, capable of striking targets with high precision at significant distances.
How does the international community respond to such attacks?
Diplomatic officials, such as Norway’s Development Minister, typically issue formal condemnations, citing breaches of international law. These incidents often lead to reviews of safety protocols for NGOs operating in high-risk zones.
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