Why Did Zelensky Approve Ukraine's Withdrawal from the Anti-Personnel Mines Treaty?
Synopsis
Ukrainian President Zelensky has taken a significant step by approving the withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, a treaty that bans anti-personnel mines. This decision, motivated by the ongoing conflict with Russia, aims to protect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Discover the implications of this historic move.
Key Takeaways
Ukraine is withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention to bolster national defense.
Over 160 countries adhere to the treaty aimed at protecting civilians.
Anti-personnel mines are seen as crucial for Ukraine’s defense amid Russian aggression.
It could take up to 30 years to clear the mines in hazardous areas.
Several neighboring nations are reconsidering their positions on the convention.
Kyiv, June 30 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially authorized a decree for Ukraine to exit the Ottawa Convention, an international treaty that prohibits the use of anti-personnel landmines.
This decree endorses the decision made by the National Security and Defense Council to withdraw from the treaty to safeguard Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The withdrawal will be effective once it receives parliamentary approval, as noted by Ukrainian lawmaker Roman Kostenko.
Established in 1997, the treaty has been adopted by over 160 nations and aims to ban the use, production, stockpiling, and transfer of anti-personnel landmines, seeking to protect civilians from potential harm once a conflict ends.
According to Zelenskyy, anti-personnel mines are often indispensable for defense, labeling them as the “signature style of Russian killers – destroying life by any means possible.”
Kostenko emphasized on Facebook that “Russia is not a party to this convention. We cannot remain constrained when our adversary has no restrictions.”
Ukraine joined the Ottawa Convention in 1999 and ratified it in 2005, as reported by Xinhua.
Several neighboring countries of Russia, including Finland, Poland, and Estonia, have either withdrawn from or signaled intentions to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention.
Following over three years of Russia's extensive invasion, Ukraine has become the most mined nation globally. Reports indicate that it may take up to 30 years to fully clear the mines, given that as much as one-third of the country may be hazardous.
Point of View
It’s crucial to highlight that Ukraine’s decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention reflects the dire circumstances faced in the ongoing conflict. The government is prioritizing national security and the protection of its citizens amidst aggressive actions by external forces. This step indicates a need for adaptability and resilience in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ottawa Convention?
The Ottawa Convention, established in 1997, is an international treaty that prohibits the use, production, stockpiling, and transfer of anti-personnel mines, aiming to protect civilians from the dangers these mines pose.
Why is Ukraine withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention?
Ukraine is withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention to enhance its national defense capabilities and protect its territorial integrity against ongoing threats from Russia.
What implications does this withdrawal have?
The withdrawal allows Ukraine to utilize anti-personnel mines in its defense strategy, reflecting the urgent need to counteract the ongoing aggression from Russia.
How long will it take to clear mines in Ukraine?
Reports suggest it could take up to 30 years to fully clear the mines, as one-third of Ukraine's territory is potentially hazardous.
Which countries have withdrawn from the Ottawa Convention?
Countries such as Finland, Poland, and Estonia have either withdrawn from the Ottawa Convention or indicated intentions to do so due to security concerns.
