Defending Ukraine on the Frontline, Restoring Safety to Native Soil Today: The Story of Veteran Vitaliy Yelnikov
The national mine action platform Demine Ukraine has prepared a feature on Vitaliy Yelnikov, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war and Deputy Head of the Mine Action Process Support Department at UDS. On the occasion of the Day of Defenders and Defendresses of Ukraine, we share the story of a protector who chose the mission of land clearance after returning from the frontline.
Vitaliy Yelnikov served as a Company First Sergeant in the Separate Presidential Brigade, carrying out combat missions in the Donetsk sector.
Behind him lies experience as a sniper-scout in the Airmobile (Airborne) Forces during his conscript service, followed by 22 months of continuous duty directly on the frontline since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
Following his military service, Vitaliy continued working for the nation's security, transitioning into the field of humanitarian demining. Today, he serves as Deputy Head of the Mine Action Process Support Department at the Ukrainian operator UDS. His daily work is dedicated to returning Ukrainian lands to safe, productive use.
“The Instrument of Defense Has Changed, but the Essence Remains the Same”
— What did defending Ukraine mean to you during your military service? And what does defending it mean today through your work in humanitarian demining?
“When the full-scale invasion began, I had no second thoughts about where I was needed most by the country. In March 2022, I joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine, drawing upon my prior military background.
Defending Ukraine meant, first and foremost, a clear commitment to combat missions. Serving as a Company First Sergeant in wartime meant direct responsibility for my brothers-in-arms carrying out that grueling work.
Today, the instrument of defense has changed for me, but the essence remains the same. In humanitarian demining, we are likewise returning Ukraine’s territories to the nation — making the land safe so people can return home, earn a living, and rebuild their lives. For me, this is simply continuing my service in another form.”
Military Experience Safeguarding Lives
— How does your military background assist you in mine action operations today?
“Military service instilled in me a deep sense of accountability, discipline, and the ability to operate in environments where a single mistake carries too high a price. Years in the military — including 22 months on the frontline — forged an uncompromising stance on safety: you cannot leave anything to chance. Every mission and task must be planned down to the smallest detail, with Plan B, Plan C, and further contingencies firmly in place.
In demining, it is vital never to rush, to adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), to rely on teamwork, and to maintain total control over every single action.”
From Armed Defense to Clearing Fields
— Why did you decide to pursue a career specifically in humanitarian demining after leaving the military?
“It was important for me to find a profession where I could fully leverage my military experience while continuing to serve Ukraine.
Combat leaves behind contaminated ground that continues to pose a lethal threat to civilians. Humanitarian demining naturally became the logical continuation of my service. I no longer hold the line with a weapon in hand, but I work every day for the safety of our people and to return these lands to productive use.”
“Real Families Behind Every Field”
— What goes through your mind when you see the tangible results of your work, such as safe fields that farmers can cultivate once again?
“Above all, the feeling of having accomplished something tangible, essential, and lasting.
At UDS, we witness land that was hazardous just yesterday become a place where people can safely cultivate crops, secure harvests, and return to normalcy. Behind every cleared field are real people and their families. Once the land is made safe, they are given back the opportunity to rebuild their lives. To me, that is the ultimate reward.”
Advice to Fellow Veterans
— What advice would you give to veterans currently transitioning to civilian life and searching for a new career path?
“You don’t have to find a lifelong calling on day one. After military service, many previously held values shift, and your priorities naturally change. It is entirely normal to take time before making a choice.
Never discount your military experience: discipline, accountability, teamwork, and sound decision-making under high pressure are immensely valuable in civilian careers.
At the same time, don’t hesitate to start fresh, learn new skills, or change your direction entirely. The most important thing is finding work where you see clear meaning and know that your effort truly matters to the country.”
We thank Demine Ukraine for preparing this material! 🤝🇺🇦
As a reminder, over a third of the UDS team are combat veterans.
Returning from the frontline, they apply their unique experience, resilience, and unyielding character to mine action, bringing safety back to our homeland every single day.