Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are planning to withdraw from the 1997 Ottawa Treaty, which banned landmines globally. The move comes as tensions between Ukraine and Russia may lead to a ceasefire agreement.
The four nations claim they need to protect their borders amid concerns over Russian aggression in the region. Finland is considering following suit. The Red Cross has expressed “grave concern” over the decision, fearing it could undermine global disarmament efforts.
In 1997, the Ottawa Treaty marked a significant step towards landmine disarmament, with almost all countries adhering to its ban. However, the recent developments in Ukraine and Russia have led some nations to reevaluate their stance on landmines.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/poland-baltic-nations-pull-out-landmines-convention-2025-03-18