Fact Check: Ukraine withdraws from the Ottawa Convention banning land mines amid war realities.

Published June 29, 2025

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# Fact Check: Ukraine Withdraws from the Ottawa Convention Banning Land Mines Amid War Realities ## What We Know Recent reports indicate that Ukraine...

Fact Check: Ukraine Withdraws from the Ottawa Convention Banning Land Mines Amid War Realities

What We Know

Recent reports indicate that Ukraine is on track to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, which bans the use of anti-personnel mines. This decision comes amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, where the Ukrainian government is reassessing its military strategies and capabilities. President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly signed a decree to facilitate this withdrawal, highlighting the urgent need for Ukraine to adapt its defense tactics in light of the war's realities (Reuters, Newsweek).

The Ottawa Convention, also known as the Mine Ban Treaty, was established in 1997 and aims to eliminate anti-personnel mines globally. Ukraine had been a signatory to this treaty, but the current circumstances of the war have prompted a reconsideration of its commitments to international agreements regarding landmines (Wikipedia).

Analysis

The claim that Ukraine is withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention is supported by multiple credible sources, including official statements from the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and major news outlets like Reuters and Newsweek. These sources report that the decree signed by President Zelensky is a direct response to the ongoing military conflict and the need for enhanced defensive measures against Russian aggression.

However, it is essential to critically assess the implications of this withdrawal. While the immediate military necessity may justify such a decision, it raises significant ethical and humanitarian concerns. The use of landmines can lead to long-term civilian casualties and hinder post-conflict recovery efforts. The Ottawa Convention was designed to protect civilians from the dangers posed by these weapons, and withdrawing from it could undermine Ukraine's international standing and commitment to humanitarian principles (BBC).

Moreover, the reliability of the sources reporting this development is generally high, as they include reputable news organizations and official government communications. However, it is crucial to remain cautious about potential biases in reporting, especially given the complex geopolitical context of the war in Ukraine.

Conclusion

Verdict: Needs Research

The claim that Ukraine is withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention banning land mines is substantiated by credible sources, including government statements and news reports. However, the broader implications of this decision require further investigation. The ethical considerations surrounding the use of landmines and the potential impact on civilian populations necessitate a deeper exploration of the motivations behind this withdrawal and its consequences for Ukraine and the international community.

Sources

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