Finland Announces Withdrawal from Landmine Ban Treaty, Citing Security Threats

The move, pending parliamentary approval, aligns Finland with Poland and the Baltic states in responding to perceived long-term risks from Russia.

Finland confirmed plans to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, citing a fundamentally altered security environment due to Russia's actions.
The decision, supported by Finland's parliament, will take effect six months after parliamentary approval is granted.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized that withdrawing from the treaty allows Finland to better prepare for evolving security challenges.
Finland will increase its defense spending to at least 3% of GDP by 2029, up from 2.4% in 2024, as part of a broader military strategy reform.
Poland and the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have also announced similar withdrawals, reflecting a regional shift in defense priorities.