**NATO Members Switch to Landmine Production Amid Rising Tensions with Russia**
In a significant shift in their defense priorities, two NATO member countries – Lithuania and Finland – have announced plans to start manufacturing landmines. This move is seen as a response to growing concerns about Russian military intentions, particularly in the region.
**Ukraine’s Influence on the Decision**
The decision by Lithuania and Finland to produce landmines comes amid Ukraine’s increasing reliance on these weapons for defensive purposes. Ukrainian forces have been using landmines extensively in their fight against Russia, leading Kyiv to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention that banned such mines. The treaty prohibits the production, stockpiling, and use of anti-personnel mines.
**Lithuania’s Plans to Domestically Produce Landmines**
Lithuania plans to order tens of thousands of anti-personnel mines, with Deputy Defense Minister Karolis Aleksa estimating the cost at “hundreds of millions of euros.” The country will position its domestic industry as a primary supplier and aims to supply landmines not only to Ukraine but also potentially to other NATO member states.
**Finland’s View on Landmine Production**
Finland, which shares NATO’s longest border with Russia, views landmine production as essential for supply security. According to Finnish parliamentary defense committee chair Heikki Autto, landmines are “highly effective and very cost-efficient weapons systems.” Finland aims to increase its defense spending to 3% of GDP by 2029.
**Other Baltic Countries Follow Suit**
In March, Estonia, Latvia, and Poland announced their intention to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention. While they have not yet launched landmine production, these countries maintain manufacturing capabilities that could be activated if required. Polish private munitions manufacturer ZSP Niewiadow plans to resume large-scale anti-personnel mine production by 2027.
**Concerns Over Lasting Dangers of Landmines**
Anti-mine groups have criticized the decision by NATO member states to abandon the Ottawa Convention, citing the lasting dangers posed by landmines. These explosive devices can threaten both soldiers and civilians long after conflicts end.
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