Poland and Baltic States Consider Exiting Landmine Treaty Amid Rising Security Threats from Russia

Poland and the Baltic states are taking a significant step by planning to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty, which bans anti-personnel landmines. This move comes as they express concerns over rising threats from Russia. The defense ministers from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland highlighted the increasing security risks since they signed the treaty, stating it is crucial for their troops to have more flexibility to defend against potential threats.

The Ottawa Treaty, effective since 1997, aims to eliminate anti-personnel mines globally. Although over 160 countries have ratified it, major military powers like Russia, China, and the US have not signed on. The Baltic countries signed the treaty by 2005, while Poland joined in 2012.

In their recent announcement, the ministers acknowledged that the security landscape in their region has changed dramatically. They unanimously recommended the withdrawal from the convention, emphasizing that it is essential to protect their nations. However, they assured that they remain committed to humanitarian laws, including the protection of civilians during conflicts.

All four nations belong to NATO and share borders with Russia. Following the onset of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, these countries have ramped up military spending and provided extensive support to Ukraine. According to the Kiel Institute, Poland and the Baltic states rank among the highest per capita donors of aid to Ukraine.

Despite being a signatory to the Ottawa Treaty, Ukraine has faced challenges in adhering to it, especially during the ongoing conflict. The UN has reported that Ukraine is now the most mined country in the world, with significant numbers of landmines and unexploded ordnance posing dangers to civilians.

This evolving situation underlines a broader trend in global security. As nations face new and more diverse threats, the flexibility in defense strategies is becoming increasingly important. The Baltic nations and Poland are signaling that their main priority is the safety and sovereignty of their regions, even if it means stepping away from international agreements designed to promote peace.



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