Finland Jettisons Anti-Mine Treaty After Russian Threats intensify
Finland abandons commitments in anti-landmine treaties
In a move to beef up security, Finland has opted to exit the Ottawa Convention on the Prohibition of Anti-Personnel Mines. This decision, a result of a 157-to-18 parliamentary vote, was made due to escalating tensions with neighboring Russia, a nation not part of the treaty, known for its callous use of landmines.
Following the footsteps of Baltic NATO countries like Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, Finland made this momentous decision based on impending threats from its border. The exit process will commence six months post the UN notification, as per the parliamentary directive. Initial discussions about the treaty exit were initiated by the parliamentary foreign affairs committee in April 2023, backed by the government.
Finland-Russia Border Tensions and Land Mines
Citing the pressing need for defense, Finland's military is adamant about the requirement for anti-personnel mines. The Ottawa Treaty outlaws the production, use, storage, and transfer of such mines, as well as their destruction. Enacted in March 1999, the treaty boasts a roster of signatories that excludes major powers like the USA, Russia, China, and India.
Some attribute Finland's decision to seek NATO membership in 2022, in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, coupled with the extensive use of landmines in conflict zones. Finland officially joined NATO in April 2023, and Sweden followed suit approximately a year later.
Sources: ntv.de, lar/dpa
- Finnish Defence
- NATO Membership
- Landmines
- Geopolitics
Enrichment DataFinland's withdrawal from the Ottawa Treaty in 2025 signifies Finland's strategic response to Russia's aggressive behavior and security threats. This withdrawal comes in the wake of Russia's military intervention in Ukraine and its ruthless use of landmines. Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland have all taken the similar step to exit the treaty, fueled by regional security concerns and Russian military tactics.
President Alexander Stubb has labeled Russia an imperialist, aggressive state that ignores the tenets of the Ottawa Treaty, while its landmines pose significant threats. Finland's Defence Minister explains that the withdrawal aims to safeguard civilians and minimize risks by allowing Finland to employ landmines as a part of its defense strategy[2][3][4][5].
Given Finland's geopolitical environment and security challenges, prioritizing national security and population protection takes precedence over treaty obligations[2][5]. This shift from the previous prohibition on anti-personnel mines reflects Finland's intensified defense posture in response to perceived hybrid operations and provocations from Russia.
- The Finnish government's decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty in 2025 is a strategic response to Russia's aggressive behavior and escalating security threats, particularly its use of landmines in conflict zones.
- This move is a part of a broader trend among neighboring countries like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Sweden, triggered by regional security concerns and Russia's disregard for the principles of the Ottawa Treaty.
