Poland & Baltic States to Withdraw from Ottawa Convention

On 18th March 2025, NATO members Poland and the Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia) announced their decision to withdraw from the 1997 Ottawa Convention, also known as Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty, citing increased military threats from Russia.

Key Points

Military Justification: Defence Ministers cited growing security concerns due to Russia and Belarus, emphasizing the need for all defensive measures.
Stockpiling Landmines: The withdrawal will enable these nations to resume stockpiling anti-personnel mines for border protection.
Regional Security Concerns: The move aligns with Finland’s recent consideration of withdrawing from the treaty in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
NATO’s Defensive Posture: The decision signals a strengthened commitment to national security amid heightened geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe.