**Ukraine Withdraws from Ottawa Convention Banning Anti-Personnel Mines**
In a significant move, President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a decree to withdraw Ukraine from the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel mines. This decision follows in the footsteps of neighboring countries like Poland and the Baltic nations, who have also opted out of the treaty.
The Ottawa Convention, signed by over 160 countries in 1997, aims to protect civilians from the devastating effects of scattered explosives that can maim them long after a conflict is over. However, Ukraine’s lawmakers argue that Russia’s massive use of mines against Ukrainian soldiers and civilians makes it necessary for Ukraine to defend itself.
“Russia is not a party to this Convention and is massively using mines against our military and civilians,” said Roman Kostenko, secretary of the parliament’s defense committee. “This is a step that the reality of war has long demanded.”
The move comes as Ukraine continues to face a brutal war with Russia, with soldiers and civilians often losing their feet or limbs due to detonations. The territory liberated by Ukraine since 2022 has been heavily contaminated with mines, making it extremely difficult and dangerous for clearance teams.
Kostenko stated that the decision will now be sent to parliament, where it will be debated and finalized. However, the exact dates of its implementation remain unclear.
**Russia’s Use of Mines in Ukraine**
According to Human Rights Watch, Russia has used over a dozen variants of anti-personnel mines since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The use of these mines has resulted in significant casualties among Ukrainian soldiers and civilians.
The Biden administration’s decision to provide anti-personnel mines to Ukraine in 2024 was seen as a surprise move that angered Moscow. The US claimed it was necessary to help Ukraine stall Russian advances in the east, where the front-line situation had deteriorated.
**Ukraine’s Military Response**
As Ukraine continues to face this new reality of war, President Zelensky has emphasized the need for Ukraine to strengthen its defense capabilities. This includes withdrawing from treaties that restrict the use of certain weapons, like anti-personnel mines.
In a statement, Kostenko said, “This is not a decision taken lightly. We must ensure our military and civilians are protected from the scourge of Russian mines.”
As the war rages on in Ukraine, it remains to be seen how this move will impact international relations and the global response to Russia’s actions.
