Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has announced that Ukraine is moving toward withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention, a landmark international treaty banning the use, production, and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines. The decision, formalized through a presidential decree, reflects a significant shift in Ukraine’s military posture in response to Russia’s continued and widespread use of landmines during the ongoing war.
epa11944370 (L-R) EU Council President Antonio Costa, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrive for an European Special Council meeting in Brussels, Belgium, 06 March 2025. The EU leaders are convening for a special summit to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine and enhance European defence. EPA/CHRISTOPHE PETIT TESSON
The Convention
The Ottawa Convention, also known as the Mine Ban Treaty, was ratified by Ukraine in 2005. President Zelenskiy said the withdrawal is a “necessary step” given the reality on the battlefield after more than 40 months of full-scale war. Russia, which is not a signatory to the treaty, has deployed anti-personnel mines extensively in occupied areas, significantly hindering both civilian safety and Ukrainian military operations.
A couple with a child visit an exhibition of destroyed Russian military vehicles and weapons, dedicated to the country’s Independence Day, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in the centre of Kyiv, Ukraine August 24, 2022. REUTERS / Valentyn Ogirenko
In his nightly video address, Zelenskiy condemned Russia’s tactics, describing them as “a hallmark of Russian killers” who aim to “destroy life by all means at their disposal.” He noted that the use of anti-personnel mines has become an irreplaceable tool for defense in the current conflict. The president also referenced the actions of neighboring countries—such as Finland, Poland, and the Baltic states—which have either withdrawn from the convention or signaled intentions to do so amid growing regional security threats.
Explaining the Possible Withdrawal
Zelenskiy emphasized the political and strategic importance of the move, especially for countries bordering Russia. “We know the complexities of the withdrawal procedure when it is conducted during war. We take this political step and give a signal to our political partners on what to focus on,” he said.
The presidential decree, published on the official website, supports a proposal from Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to begin the withdrawal process from the 1997 treaty.
However, the decision is not final until ratified by Ukraine’s parliament. Roman Kostenko, a senior Ukrainian lawmaker and secretary of the national security, defense, and intelligence committee, affirmed that legislative approval is still required. He described the step as long overdue, citing Russia’s unrestricted use of mines against both Ukrainian forces and civilians.
Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul meets Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine June 30, 2025. REUTERS/Gleb Garanich
“We cannot remain tied down in an environment where the enemy has no restrictions,” Kostenko wrote, urging parliament to restore Ukraine’s full right to defend its territory using all necessary means.
The move comes at a time when Russia has stepped up its offensive operations in eastern Ukraine, leveraging its manpower advantage and continuing to employ tactics, such as widespread mining, that are prohibited under international humanitarian law.
As Ukraine prepares for a critical parliamentary vote on the matter, the country’s potential withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention marks a notable shift in the international debate on the rules of warfare—and reflects the evolving realities of a conflict with no immediate end in sight.
