Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have announced their withdrawal from the Ottawa Treaty, which bans the use of anti-personnel mines. The decision was officially confirmed by the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense, citing the deteriorating security situation in the region as the primary reason for this move.
In a joint statement, representatives of the four countries emphasized the direct threat posed by Russia and Belarus. They underlined the crucial role of anti-personnel mines in strengthening defensive capabilities and deterrence measures. The statement also pointed out that Russia is not a party to the treaty.
„In light of this unstable security situation—marked by Russian aggression and the ongoing threat it poses to the Euro-Atlantic community—it is essential to consider all measures that can enhance our deterrence and defense capabilities,” the official statement published on the Ministry of National Defense website reads.
This decision reflects growing concerns among NATO’s eastern flank countries, which have been reinforcing their defenses due to heightened tensions in the region.
