Why Did Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia Withdraw from the Mine Ban Treaty?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold move, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have announced their withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, citing evolving security needs. This decision marks a significant shift in regional defense strategy, allowing for greater autonomy in military capabilities while maintaining a commitment to humanitarian principles.
Key Takeaways
- Withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention allows greater military flexibility for the Baltic states.
- The decision reflects changing security dynamics in the region.
- All three countries remain committed to international humanitarian law.
- Domestic legislative procedures were followed to facilitate the withdrawal.
- The move follows a broader regional initiative involving Poland and Finland.
Vilnius, June 29 (NationPress) Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have formally informed the United Nations Secretary-General of their withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention. The three Baltic states highlighted their shifting national security requirements as the main reason for this collective action, which forbids the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys shared the news on X, stating, “Today, Lithuania officially notified the UN Secretary-General of its withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention. This decision was not made lightly,” Budrys remarked.
The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the regional security landscape has dramatically altered since Latvia's accession to the Convention. “Withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention will give Latvia the flexibility to strengthen deterrence and ensure the protection of the country and its residents,” the ministry explained.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna noted, “By leaving the Ottawa Convention, the Estonian Defence Forces will have greater flexibility in selecting the weapons systems, tools, and solutions necessary to bolster the country's defense capabilities.”
This withdrawal enables the three Baltic nations to legally obtain, produce, stockpile, utilize, and transfer anti-personnel landmines.
All three countries reiterated their commitment to international humanitarian law and pledged to continue supporting humanitarian demining and aid for armed conflict victims, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The Ottawa Convention was signed in 1997 and became effective in 1999. Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia joined the Convention in 2003, 2004, and 2005, respectively, with Poland following suit in 2012.
In recent months, all three countries have navigated domestic legislative processes to facilitate their withdrawal.
Lithuania's parliament sanctioned the exit in May, with President Gitanas Nauseda calling the decision a logical and necessary step. This unified Baltic decision is part of a broader regional initiative, with Poland and Finland also initiating procedures to exit the Convention.
According to the treaty's stipulations, withdrawal becomes effective six months after each country's formal notification is received by the UN Secretary-General.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the balance between national security and humanitarian commitments. The Baltic states' decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention indicates a response to evolving security threats, yet it raises questions about the future of humanitarian norms in the region. It is essential for these nations to navigate this transition with transparency and a continued commitment to international law.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention?
The three Baltic nations cited evolving national security needs as the main reason for their coordinated decision to exit the treaty.
What does the withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention entail?
The withdrawal allows the Baltic states to legally acquire, produce, stockpile, use, and transfer anti-personnel landmines.
When did Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia join the Ottawa Convention?
Lithuania joined in 2003, Latvia in 2004, and Estonia in 2005.
What is the Ottawa Convention?
The Ottawa Convention is a treaty that prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines.
How long will it take for the withdrawal to be effective?
The withdrawal becomes effective six months after formal notification to the UN Secretary-General.
