UDS at Forbes Agro 2026

UDS took part in Forbes Agro 2026 — one of the key agricultural forums of the year, bringing together leading producers whose combined contribution to Ukraine’s economy exceeds 15%.

During the panel discussion “Demining the Future: Stories of Those Who Bring Life Back to the Fields,” farmers welcomed humanitarian deminers with a standing ovation.

The discussion was moderated by Volodymyr Baida, Head of the Humanitarian Demining Center.

“Sown does not mean safe. There are many cases where farmers cultivate de-occupied land at their own risk, while explosive hazards remain in the soil. Most often, these are unexploded ordnance — artillery shells and mortar rounds. It is essential that certified specialized operators conduct surveys, whether non-technical or technical. In many cases, clearance of former combat areas is required. Ukrainian operators conduct non-technical surveys free of charge, while technical surveys, demining, and clearance of former combat areas are funded by the state,” Volodymyr Baida noted.

Among the panel speakers, who shared their personal stories and professional experience in humanitarian demining, were:

Serhii Smyrnov — Deputy Head of the Humanitarian Demining Department at UDS; Dmytro Slepkany — Humanitarian Coordinator of the NGO “Ukrainian Association of Deminers”; Bohdan Hrechko — Regional Operations Manager at The HALO Trust Ukraine.

For Serhii Smyrnov, every cleared meter is personal. A combat veteran and professional сапер, he was among the first defenders to enter liberated Kherson. After sustaining a severe injury in 2022 and undergoing a long rehabilitation process, he returned to work. Today at UDS, he develops standard operating procedures and organizes mechanized humanitarian demining operations. In 2023, he was awarded the Order “For Courage,” III degree.

When asked whether he experienced a psychological barrier after his injury or considered choosing a safer professional path, Serhii answered briefly:

“Who, if not us.”

Background.

Forbes Agro 2026 served as a platform for strategic discussion on the future of the agricultural sector — from increasing revenue per hectare and diversifying logistics routes to adapting to EU standards, implementing modern technologies, automation, traceability, artificial intelligence, and attracting investment.

The event brought together owners and executives of agricultural companies, representatives of government institutions, international organizations, banks, and investors — those shaping Ukraine’s economic resilience.