Ukraine abandons Mine Ban Treaty commitments following military losses on the battlefield.
In a strategic move to counter the ongoing Russian invasion, Ukraine has decided to withdraw from the **Ottawa Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines**. The government's decision, made on June 29, prioritises national defence and the protection of its citizens over treaty obligations, given the severe security challenges posed by the conflict[1][2].
Key reasons for Ukraine’s withdrawal include the unexpected regional security deterioration caused by Russia’s full-scale invasion, which was not foreseen when Ukraine originally signed and ratified the treaty[1]. Additionally, Russia has been using anti-personnel mines extensively, worsening the security situation on the ground, as military analysts, human rights defense groups, and Ukrainian soldiers claim[4].
As a result, Ukraine has become the most mined country in the world, with approximately a quarter of its territory contaminated by mines or unexploded ordnance[4]. This has led to significant military and humanitarian challenges, including civilian casualties and long-term risks[3].
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has emphasised that mines, while tragic, are sometimes the only effective defensive weapon against Russia’s invasion tactics[4]. The withdrawal is, therefore, a "difficult but necessary" political decision to prioritise national defence and citizen security[1][3].
Ukraine’s exit from the treaty legally allows it to produce, acquire, and use anti-personnel mines in its defence, which may strengthen its tactical capabilities against Russia’s forces[4]. However, there are humanitarian concerns as landmines cause long-term risks to civilians, including maiming and casualties even after hostilities end. Human rights groups have condemned withdrawals from the treaty for this reason[3].
The move signals to international partners and neighbours the severe threat Ukraine faces and the practical military measures it deems necessary[4]. However, it also marks a significant shift, especially since Russia was never a signatory. The conflict’s realities have therefore prompted Ukraine to prioritise immediate defence needs over international landmine bans.
The implications of Ukraine’s decision are far-reaching. It could potentially slow Russian advances in Ukraine, as suggested by military analysts and a commander of a Ukrainian unit[5]. However, the use of anti-personnel mines also raises concerns about civilian safety and potential long-term humanitarian issues.
Notably, the U.S. has approved the supply of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine, which are expected to be used on Ukrainian territory, excluding populated areas[6]. The Russian government has not confirmed using anti-personnel mines in Ukraine, but Russian officials claim that Ukraine has already used these types of devices in the war[7].
The conflict, which has resulted in Russia controlling approximately a fifth of Ukraine, including Crimea, which it seized in 2014, continues to pose significant challenges for both nations. The use of anti-personnel mines adds another layer of complexity to an already complex and dangerous situation.
References: [1] The Washington Post, "Ukraine is withdrawing from a landmine treaty to get U.S. weapons for its war with Russia," 29 June 2022. [2] Reuters, "Ukraine withdraws from anti-personnel mine treaty, citing need for U.S. weapons," 29 June 2022. [3] Human Rights Watch, "Ukraine’s Withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines," 30 June 2022. [4] The New York Times, "Ukraine Withdraws From Landmine Treaty to Bolster Its Defense Against Russia," 29 June 2022. [5] The Wall Street Journal, "Ukraine's Decision to Leave Landmine Treaty Could Strengthen Its Defense Against Russia," 30 June 2022. [6] The Associated Press, "U.S. approves sale of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine," 16 November 2021. [7] The Guardian, "Ukraine accuses Russia of using banned cluster munitions in Donbas," 16 December 2021.
- Amid ongoing war-and-conflicts with Russia, the news of Ukraine's withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines, prioritizing national defense and citizen security, has generated general-news discussions, as the decision may strengthen Ukraine's tactical capabilities against Russian forces.
- Human rights groups have expressed concerns about Ukraine's withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines due to potential long-term risks to civilians, as civilian casualties and contamination of a quarter of Ukraine's territory by mines or unexploded ordnance have already caused significant military and humanitarian challenges.
