Zelenskyy Formalizes Ukraine’s Exit from Mine Ban Convention — What’s Next?

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree enacting the decision of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention — an international treaty that bans the use, production, and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines.

This was reported by People’s Deputy Roman Kostenko.

According to a member of parliament, the decision is driven by the realities of war, in which Russia — not a signatory to the Convention — is extensively using mines against both Ukrainian forces and civilians.

“This is a step long demanded by the reality of war. Russia is not a party to the Convention and is actively using mines against our military and civilians. We cannot remain bound by restrictions that our enemy does not follow,” the deputy said.

Further steps now depend on the Verkhovna Rada, which must formalize the decision through legislation, the lawmaker added. According to him, this will allow Ukraine to strengthen its defensive capabilities.

As of now, the presidential decree has not yet been published on the official website of the President’s Office.

What is the Ottawa Convention?

The Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, also known as the Ottawa Treaty, was adopted in September 1997 in Oslo and entered into force in 1999. It mandates a complete ban on the use, production, transfer, and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines.

To date, more than 160 countries — including most Western nations — have joined the treaty. However, several major military powers such as the United States, Russia, China, India, and Pakistan have not signed or ratified the agreement.

Recall that the day before, the Baltic countries notified the UN of their withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel mines.

As reported, the Polish parliament voted to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, which bans the use and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines. This decision was supported by 413 deputies of the Sejm, 15 opposed, and three abstained.

In addition, the Finnish parliament approved the country’s withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, which bans landmines. In the future, the Defense Forces will be allowed to use such weapons.

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