Ukraine Leads Charge: Countries Rethink Landmine Ban Amid Rising Threats

Following perceived threats from Russia, Ukraine and several NATO members plan to exit the Ottawa Convention, sparking global concern over increased landmine use. This decision could reverse decades of disarmament efforts and poses risks to civilians. U.N. Secretary General Guterres has urged countries to adhere to existing disarmament treaties.

Ukraine, alongside NATO allies Finland, Poland, and the Baltic states, has signaled plans to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel landmines. These nations cite growing military threats from Russia as the catalyst for their controversial decision.

The retreat from the treaty, considered a key post-Cold War disarmament milestone, alarms activists due to the devastating effects landmines have on civilian populations. Countries leaving the convention may resume landmine production and deployment, reversing global disarmament efforts.

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres expressed profound concerns over the recent withdrawal moves, urging nations to honor existing treaties. The International Campaign to Ban Landmines reports declining demining efforts, exacerbated by funding cuts from the U.S., hampering global humanitarian initiatives.

(With inputs from agencies.)