**Ukraine Withdraws from Anti-Personnel Mines Treaty in Response to Russian Aggression**
In a move aimed at countering Russia’s use of landmines against Ukrainian civilians and soldiers, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has signed a decree withdrawing Ukraine from the Ottawa Convention. The treaty bans the production and use of anti-personnel mines.
The decision was made in response to Russia’s intensified military operations in Ukraine over recent months. Despite being a signatory to the convention since 2005, Ukraine had not withdrawn before. However, with the ongoing war, Ukrainian officials feel it is necessary to re-evaluate their participation in international agreements that limit their ability to defend themselves.
“The reality of war has long demanded this step,” said Roman Kostenko, a senior Ukrainian lawmaker and secretary of the parliament’s committee on national security, defence, and intelligence. “Russia is not a party to this Convention and is massively using mines against our military and civilians.”
Kostenko emphasized that parliamentary approval would still be required for Ukraine to formally withdraw from the treaty. This process has not been scheduled yet.
**Background: The Ottawa Convention**
The Ottawa Convention was signed in 1997 by over 100 countries, including Ukraine, with the goal of prohibiting the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. Russia is one of several countries that did not sign the treaty.
By withdrawing from the convention, Ukraine aims to free itself from restrictions imposed by international law in its ability to defend against Russian aggression. Kostenko noted that the decision would “definitively restore Ukraine’s right to effectively defend its territory.”
**Global Implications**
The move could have significant implications for the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as for future international agreements on disarmament.
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