Tokyo, October 10 2025 (Agencies) Japan has announced that it will dispatch two Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) instructors to Lithuania to train Ukrainian sappers in advanced demining techniques. The program, scheduled from November 3 to December 5, 2025, will cover explosive ordnance disposal, mine detection, and methods of safely neutralizing mines and other explosive devices.
The training initiative is part of a broader humanitarian support strategy for Ukraine. It will be conducted in collaboration with Lithuania and several Nordic countries, including Iceland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. The course will combine classroom instruction with extensive field exercises to strengthen Ukraine’s capacity to clear landmines left in conflict zones.
Japan’s Ministry of Defense stated that this step reflects the country’s commitment to international humanitarian cooperation, focusing on technical training and capacity building rather than direct military engagement. It follows Japan’s earlier contributions of demining equipment and participation in global coalitions supporting Ukraine.
Defense Minister Gen Nakatani described the initiative as a meaningful contribution toward improving humanitarian conditions in Ukraine, emphasizing that enhanced demining capabilities will save lives and support reconstruction in war-affected areas.