Lithuania Declares its Departure from the Anti-Landmine Treaty
Lithuania Ditches the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty: Why, When, and What's Next
Lithuania has made the dramatic move to leave the anti-personnel mine ban agreement, a decision confirmed by Ridas Jasiulenis, an advisor to President Gitanas Nauseda. This departure from the treaty, known as the Ottawa Convention, was later announced by Minister of Foreign Affairs Kastutis Budris on a popular social network.
So, why the sudden change of heart? Well, it seems Russia's escalating security threats have played a significant role in Lithuania's decision, with the nation assessing "Putin’s Russia as the greatest long-term existential threat to Europe." With Russia waging war, destabilizing the region, and preparing for prolonged confrontation, Lithuania feels it must take all necessary measures to protect its state, population, and NATO territory using "all effective military means." This likely includes anti-personnel mines.
Curious about the timeline? Lithuania formally announced its withdrawal on June 28, 2025, notifying the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. The withdrawal will take effect six months later, as per treaty rules. The Lithuanian parliament approved the decision to denounce the treaty in May 2025, and it was signed by the president before the official notification.
This decision isn't an isolated event; Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and Finland, all NATO and EU countries bordering Russia, have also expressed similar concerns and have either approved or initiated their own withdrawal from the treaty. Even as they withdraw, all nations remain committed to responsible defense and adherence to international humanitarian law, ensuring civilian protection.
Stay tuned for more on this developing story!
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The president of Lithuania, Gitanas Nauseda, has approved a decision to denounce the anti-personnel mine ban treaty, known as the Ottawa Convention, citing Russia's escalating security threats as a primary reason. This move is part of a broader policy-and-legislation shift in Lithuanian politics, as neighboring countries such as Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and Finland have expressed similar concerns and initiated their own withdrawal from the treaty. Despite these actions, all nations involved remain dedicated to responsible defense and adherence to international humanitarian law, prioritizing civilian protection in their general-news reporting.
