The extensive deployment of landmines by Russian forces has significantly impacted the dynamics of the war, causing Ukrainian soldiers to alter their strategies and tactics to navigate this deadly threat, Insider writes.

At the forefront of this issue is the staggering density of the minefields, particularly in some regions where reports suggest Russia has placed up to five mines per square meter. Ukrainian officials have characterized these minefields as “insane,” highlighting the unprecedented challenge they pose to the advancing Ukrainian forces.

One disturbing aspect of these minefields is the multi-layered structure implemented by the Russian forces. This tactic involves laying multiple mines on top of each other, creating a formidable barrier that not only hampers mine-clearing efforts but also poses a direct threat to mine-clearing equipment. The complexity of these minefields has forced some Ukrainian soldiers to make the difficult decision to abandon their Western-made tanks and advance on foot to avoid triggering these deadly traps.

The scope of the minefields is unparalleled, with estimates suggesting that Russia has created the largest minefield in the world, stretching along a 750-mile front line. This vast expanse of mines, combined with the strategic placement and utilization of lethal booby traps, has significantly hindered Ukraine’s counteroffensive efforts.

The impact of these landmines is not confined to a single type. Four main categories of landmines have been identified by the Insider: blast mines, bounding mines, fragmentation mines, and anti-tank blast mines. Each type inflicts varying degrees of harm on both human lives and military equipment.

Despite being a legacy of 20th-century warfare, landmines continue to play a devastating role due to their affordability, ease of production, and effectiveness. The grim reality is that these seemingly archaic weapons remain a potent and lethal tool on the modern battlefield.