Landmines pose a significant threat, causing severe injuries to both military and civilian populations, especially where their locations are unknown. A recent policy shift has seen Poland and Baltic nations withdraw from the Ottawa Convention due to regional security concerns, with Poland planning to reintroduce anti-personnel mines as part of its defense strategy against Russia. While Latvia and Estonia are cautious, the move highlights a collective stance on national defense amid ongoing conflicts, despite criticism regarding disarmament agreements.
The Dangers of Landmines
Landmines represent a devastating threat, capable of inflicting severe injuries on anyone who inadvertently steps on them. Upon detonation, these deadly devices can result in the loss of limbs and cause serious damage to internal organs.
Both military personnel and civilians are at risk, particularly when the locations of these mines remain unmarked or when conflicts have subsided. This dire situation has led to widespread international agreement on the necessity of a ban, culminating in the Ottawa Convention, which has been in effect since 1999 and has seen 160 nations commit to refraining from the use of anti-personnel mines.
A Shift in Policy Among Eastern European Nations
Recently, however, a significant shift in policy has emerged. Poland, along with the Baltic nations of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—countries that share borders with Russia—has declared its intention to withdraw from this international treaty. In a joint statement released in mid-March, these nations cited a deteriorating security situation in their region as justification for this decision. Lithuania’s Defense Minister, Dovile Sakaliene, emphasized the urgency of rearmament, stating, “We must arm ourselves to the teeth – and quickly.”
Poland views the reintroduction of landmines as a crucial component of its “Eastern Shield” initiative, designed to bolster national security against potential Russian aggression. The nation has already procured anti-tank mines, which are not subject to restrictions under the Ottawa Convention, and is now looking to deploy anti-personnel mines, previously outlawed. Pawel Bejda, Secretary of State in the Polish Ministry of Defense, announced plans to acquire up to one million of these mines.
Landmines—both anti-personnel and anti-tank—can serve as formidable barriers to enemy advances, complicating the movement of troops and vehicles through mined areas. This strategic consideration may be driving the policy changes among these nations, particularly given their geographical landscape.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has seen the use of anti-personnel mines, with Russia, which has never signed the Ottawa Convention, employing such devices. Reports from various non-governmental organizations indicate that Ukraine may also be utilizing these mines despite the international agreement.
Demonstrating Solidarity Amidst Uncertainty
While the ultimate use of landmines in these four countries remains uncertain, Latvia and Estonia have taken a more cautious stance compared to Poland. The head of Latvia’s Defense Corps, Kaspars Pudans, recently stated that Latvia’s primary focus will be on anti-tank mines and artillery. Likewise, Estonia’s Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur noted, “We currently have no plans to develop, store, or use anti-personnel mines.”
The decision made by these nations appears to be a show of solidarity for the time being. They collectively assert, “We send a clear message: Our countries are ready to defend our territory and our freedom,” with the Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds describing this move as a crucial step toward establishing a “common Baltic defense line.”
Historically, landmines have played a significant role in various conflicts, leaving behind lasting repercussions that are still felt in regions like Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Korea, where areas remain heavily mined. The unpredictable locations of these mines complicate efforts for their removal and frequently result in civilian casualties, with 80 percent of mine victims being non-combatants, including a disproportionate number of children.
It is hoped that the impacts of renewed landmine usage will be less severe than in previous conflicts, thanks to meticulous mapping of mined areas, which could facilitate safer post-conflict recovery efforts. Additionally, advancements in technology have led to the development of new anti-personnel mines that are designed to self-detonate after a set period.
Despite these considerations, Poland and the Baltic states have faced criticism for their decision. Norway’s Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, remarked, “Disarmament agreements are particularly important in times of conflict. These weapons have no place in modern warfare.” Moving forward, the parliaments of the four nations must still ratify their withdrawal from the treaty, with other countries, such as Finland, already indicating similar intentions.