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Ukraine Formalizes Withdrawal From Ottawa Mine Ban Treaty With European Neighbors

Kyiv’s decree triggers a six-month pullout pending parliamentary approval that critics say will expose civilians to new mine risks

Ukrainian serviceman Oleksiy, 26, who lost most of his left leg after being wounded by an anti-personnel mine, stands with other patients of a rehabilitation centre during a minute of silence, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine July 3, 2025. REUTERS/Alina Smutko
Ukrainian serviceman Oleksiy, 26, who lost most of his left leg after being wounded by an anti-personnel mine, exercises at a rehabilitation centre, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine July 3, 2025. REUTERS/Alina Smutko
Ukrainian serviceman Oleksiy, 26, who lost most of his left leg after being wounded by an anti-personnel mine, reacts as he exercises at a rehabilitation centre, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine July 3, 2025. REUTERS/Alina Smutko

Overview

  • Ukraine on June 29 signed a decree to withdraw from the 1999 Ottawa Convention, beginning a six-month exit process requiring parliamentary ratification
  • Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Finland have launched similar six-month procedures to lift bans on anti-personnel mines
  • Kyiv and NATO officials argue minefields are needed to bolster defenses and slow Russian infantry advances in the face of shortages of soldiers and munitions
  • Humanitarian campaigners warn renewed mine use will amplify civilian casualties and impose long-term demining challenges
  • Observers say the coordinated withdrawals risk undermining established international arms control and humanitarian law frameworks