Zelensky approves Ukraine’s withdrawal from Ottawa treaty banning landmines

Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a decree initiating the country’s withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, a global treaty that prohibits the use of anti-personnel landmines.

The decree, which endorses a decision by the National Security and Defense Council, cites the need “to protect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.” The withdrawal must still receive parliamentary approval to be finalised, according to Ukrainian lawmaker Roman Kostenko.

Established in 1997 and adopted by over 160 nations, the Ottawa Convention bans the use, production, stockpiling, and transfer of anti-personnel landmines to prevent civilian casualties long after conflicts end.

Zelensky defended the use of such mines, stating they often lack effective alternatives in defense strategies. He referred to them as the “signature style of Russian killers – to destroy life by all methods at their disposal”.

Kostenko noted the asymmetry in adherence to international norms, pointing out that “Russia is not a side of this convention,” and added, “We cannot stay bound when the enemy has no limitations.”

Ukraine became a signatory to the convention in 1999 and formally ratified it in 2005, according to the Xinhua news agency.

Finland, Poland, and Estonia—countries that share borders with Russia—have either exited the treaty or signalled intentions to do so amid shifting regional security concerns.

After more than three years of full-scale invasion by Russia, Ukraine is now considered the most heavily mined country in the world. Reports indicate that up to one-third of its territory may be contaminated, and experts estimate demining efforts could span the next 30 years.

(inputs from IANS)