Fact Check: "Poland, Lithuania, and Finland also abandoned the Ottawa Convention this year."
What We Know
The claim that "Poland, Lithuania, and Finland also abandoned the Ottawa Convention this year" is based on recent developments regarding the withdrawal of these countries from the Convention on the Prohibition of Anti-Personnel Mines, commonly known as the Ottawa Convention.
-
Lithuania's Withdrawal: Lithuania officially announced its decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention on May 8, 2025, with the withdrawal set to take effect in six months. This decision was influenced by security concerns related to Russia's aggression in Ukraine and the need to enhance national defense capabilities (source-1).
-
Poland's Withdrawal: Poland's parliament approved a proposal to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention on June 26, 2025. This decision aligns with the regional security concerns shared by neighboring countries (source-4).
-
Finland's Position: While the claim suggests that Finland has also abandoned the Ottawa Convention, the current evidence indicates that Finland has not yet formally withdrawn. However, it has shown support for the joint statement with Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, and Estonia regarding the denunciation of the treaty (source-1).
Analysis
The claim is partially true, as it accurately reflects the withdrawal of Lithuania and Poland from the Ottawa Convention but inaccurately implies that Finland has also completed this process.
-
Lithuania's Withdrawal: The decision by Lithuania is well-documented and stems from a strategic assessment of its security needs in light of regional tensions, particularly with Russia (source-1). This source is credible, authored by an academic specializing in international law.
-
Poland's Withdrawal: Poland's parliamentary approval for withdrawal is also confirmed by reliable news outlets, indicating a clear legislative process leading to this decision (source-4). The source is a reputable news platform focused on Polish affairs.
-
Finland's Status: The claim regarding Finland is misleading. While Finland has expressed support for the regional consensus and discussions surrounding the denunciation of the Ottawa Convention, it has not yet formally withdrawn. This distinction is crucial, as it highlights the difference between intent and action. The source indicating Finland's support is less definitive about its withdrawal status compared to those regarding Lithuania and Poland (source-1).
Conclusion
The verdict is Partially True. The claim accurately states that Lithuania and Poland have abandoned the Ottawa Convention, but it incorrectly implies that Finland has also completed this process. As of now, Finland has not formally withdrawn, although it has shown support for the initiative.
