Poland and Baltic States Announce Withdrawal from Anti-Personnel Mine Treaty

Citing increased threats from Russia and Belarus, the four nations state their intent to exit the Ottawa Treaty while reaffirming commitment to humanitarian law.

Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have formally declared their intention to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty, pending parliamentary approval in each country.
The defense ministers of the four nations argue that the security situation in Eastern Europe has deteriorated significantly due to Russian aggression and threats from Belarus.
The withdrawal is positioned as a measure to provide defense forces with greater flexibility to strengthen NATO's Eastern Flank, though no immediate plans to use anti-personnel mines were announced.
Critics, including human rights organizations, warn the decision undermines protections for civilians, with concerns over the long-term risks posed by landmines.
The move comes as the war in Ukraine highlights the widespread use of landmines, making the region's security challenges more acute.