Finland plans to leave a global convention banning anti-personnel landmines, citing growing concerns about Russian military threats, amid a push to boost defense spending. The move could allow Finland to stockpile landmines again and prepare for potential future conflicts.
The decision comes as NATO member countries strengthen their defenses in response to Russia’s evolving military presence. Poland and the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have already withdrawn from the 1997 Ottawa convention due to concerns about Russian aggression.
Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stated there is no immediate threat but warned of long-term dangers to European security. He announced a significant increase in defense spending, allocating an additional €3 billion (approximately $3.24 billion) by 2029.
The move has sparked international attention, as US President Donald Trump doubles down on ending the war in Ukraine, raising concerns about Russia’s potential re-arm and targeting other countries. Finland joined NATO in 2023 and is expected to secure parliamentary approval for its withdrawal from the treaty.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/01/europe/finland-landmines-treaty-orpo-intl/index.html