The 1997 Ottawa Treaty is facing growing challenges due to Russia’s war in Ukraine, as countries on the frontline strengthen their defenses along the Russian border.
A recent recommendation has increased the likelihood of withdrawal from the treaty.
Earlier this month, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that Poland would begin the process of leaving the treaty. Poland, along with three other nations, had been considering the move for some time and sought to take a coordinated regional approach.
This decision is primarily a political message to Moscow rather than an immediate military necessity.
“Decisions regarding the Ottawa Convention should be made in solidarity and coordination within the region. However, we currently have no plans to develop, stockpile, or deploy anti-personnel landmines that were previously banned,” stated Estonia’s Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur.
Additionally, Latvia’s Chief of Defense, Major General Kaspars Pudāns, recently told POLITICO that the country remains focused on anti-tank mines and artillery shells rather than anti-personnel mines.
Meanwhile, Finland’s Defense Minister, Antti Hakkanen, has indicated that Helsinki is also evaluating a potential withdrawal from the treaty. However, Finland was not among the signatories of the latest joint statement.













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