Colombia to train Ukrainian military in demining

By Laura Gamba

BOGOTA, Colombia (AA) - Eleven Colombian military engineers will train Ukrainian soldiers in landmine removal, Colombian Defense Minister Diego Molano said Monday.

The engineers “will be training and improving tactical landmine removal techniques and procedures in a neighboring member country of NATO,” Molano said on his Twitter account.

He said that last Friday he met with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who invited Colombia to participate in a meeting of the Ukraine Contact Group, which has more than 40 member countries.

Molano said Colombia is committed to supporting Ukraine not only with humanitarian aid but also by sharing knowledge on landmine removal.

US President Joe Biden confirmed in April the incorporation of Colombia as an extra ally in NATO after the intention was announced several weeks before.

Recently, Molano signed an agreement with NATO on a partnership program under which NATO supports Colombia in its efforts to develop its armed forces while Colombia provides demining training to NATO allies.

"Colombia, as always, is committed to the values of freedom and human rights, and in this case is making a concrete contribution as a global partner country of NATO," he said.

Colombia has vast experience in removing landmines that have been planted by guerrilla groups, including the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia during its 60-year armed conflict with the government.​​​​​​​