Ukraine Officially Exits Ottawa Convention: A Strategic Step in Ensuring National Security Amid War
Amid rising security challenges and threats from neighboring countries, Ukraine has made a momentous decision — to withdraw from the international treaty banning the use of antipersonnel mines. President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the corresponding decree, initiating the process of Ukraine’s exit from this significant international agreement. This decision comes after extensive discussions and analysis of the current wartime realities and defense needs. According to Member of Parliament Roman Kostenko, this move is essential, given that Russia and its allies blatantly ignore the convention’s restrictions by actively deploying mines against Ukrainian military and civilian targets. Remaining bound by these international limitations would have been imprudent and dangerous for Ukraine's security. The issue now requires approval by the Verkhovna Rada, which must legislate the decision. The official withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention follows a six-month period after the UN notification, allowing Ukraine to legally produce, store, and use antipersonnel mines. This is a crucial step in strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities and safeguarding its territories in current combat conditions. Notably, several neighboring countries, including Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Poland, have already decided to exit the treaty due to escalating military threats from Russia and Belarus. Finland, our neighboring state, recently joined this trend, voting in favor of exiting owing to regional security concerns and increased aggression from bordering nations.