Eastern Europe Takes Action as Countries Withdraw from Landmine Treaty Amid Ongoing Conflict
Amid increasing tensions and security concerns, several Eastern European nations, including Ukraine, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, have initiated their withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, an international treaty that bans anti-personnel mines. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed decrees allowing Ukraine to exit the treaty, citing the threat posed by Russia and the necessity for enhanced defense capabilities. The decision reflects a broader regional shift as countries bordering Russia enhance their military readiness. Leaders emphasize that adherence to the treaty is untenable under current wartime conditions, prompting a move towards the reintroduction of land mines in hopes of bolstering national security. The situation has drawn international attention, with some calling for stronger commitments to the landmine ban.
DW, The Kyiv Independent, The Moscow Times, Reuters, Українська правда, chinadailyasia.com, Kyiv Post, Commonspace.eu, TVP World, RBC-Ukraine