Norway Condemns Finland’s Decision to Withdraw from Land Mine Treaty

"Norway Criticizes Finland's Exit from Land Mine Treaty"

Weakening commitment to the Ottawa Convention may encourage the use of land mines, as countries near Russia reconsider their security amid threats.

Alex Chen2 April 2025Last Update : 3 days ago

Norway criticizes Finland’s move to quit land mine treaty – POLITICO

www.politico.eu

On April 2, 2025, Poland and three Baltic countries announced their intention to withdraw from the 1997 Ottawa Convention, which bans land mines. This decision comes amid growing security concerns due to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and perceived threats to NATO member states bordering Russia and Belarus.

5 Key Takeaways

Weakening commitment reduces weapon stigma.
Ottawa Convention faces pressure from Ukraine conflict.
Finland withdraws; Norway remains treaty-compliant.
Poland and Baltic states plan to exit convention.
Defense flexibility emphasized for Eastern NATO flank.

As Finland has also withdrawn from the treaty, Norway remains the only European country bordering Russia that does not plan to reintroduce land mines. Defense ministers from Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania emphasized the need for flexibility in their defense strategies to protect their eastern flank.

Fast Answer: Poland and three Baltic countries announced their withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention on April 2, 2025, citing security threats from Russia. Finland’s recent exit leaves Norway as the only European country bordering Russia that will not restock land mines.

The 1997 Ottawa Convention has faced increasing scrutiny due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Countries neighboring Russia are particularly concerned about potential aggression from Moscow, prompting a reassessment of their defense strategies. The withdrawal of Finland and the recent announcements from Poland and the Baltic states reflect a shift in how these nations approach their security in light of current geopolitical tensions.

Key details regarding the withdrawals include:

Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania announced their intention to leave the treaty on March 18, 2025.
Finland’s exit from the convention has raised alarms about the reintroduction of land mines in Europe.
Norway remains committed to the treaty, maintaining its stance against land mines.

The defense ministers from the withdrawing countries stated that in the current security environment, it is essential to provide their defense forces with the flexibility to utilize new weapon systems. This decision underscores the evolving nature of military strategies in response to perceived threats from Russia and Belarus. The implications of these withdrawals could lead to a decrease in the stigma associated with land mines, potentially increasing their use in future conflicts.

Notice: Canadian readers should be aware that Canada is a signatory to the Ottawa Convention and has maintained its commitment to banning land mines. The recent developments in Europe may influence discussions around military strategies and international treaties.

The announcements from Poland and the Baltic states highlight a significant shift in defense policy in response to regional security threats. As these countries reassess their commitments to the Ottawa Convention, the potential reintroduction of land mines could alter the landscape of military engagement in Europe.