Finland Withdraws from Ottawa Convention Over Russian Concerns

Finland's parliament has voted to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel landmines, due to perceived threats from neighboring Russia. The decision aligns with similar moves by other EU and NATO countries. Finland will begin stockpiling landmines six months after formal resignation.

In a significant move, Finland's parliament voted on Thursday to exit the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the deployment of anti-personnel landmines, citing a military threat from Russia.

The decision aligns with the actions of other neighboring EU and NATO countries like Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Poland, who are also leaving or planning exits from the treaty amidst concerns about the Russian threat. President Alexander Stubb asserted the necessity of this decision for national security purposes.

Despite opposition from UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, who urged continued adherence to international disarmament norms, Finnish officials, including Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen, stated the move is vital to protect national security and prevent potential attacks.

(With inputs from agencies.)