Archive · 19 Jun 2025
Finland Withdraws from Landmine Treaty Due to Russia's Threat
Finland decided to stop following a rule that bans landmines.
This is because they are worried about Russia, a country next door that uses landmines.
Finland's leaders say this will help protect people.
Other countries near Russia, like Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, have made the same decision.
The UN is not happy with this and wants everyone to keep the ban.
Finland can now start to collect landmines six months after telling everyone.
Finland's parliament voted to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, banning landmines.
The decision is due to concerns over a military threat from Russia.
President Alexander Stubb defended the move, citing Russia's use of landmines.
Finland will be able to stockpile landmines six months after notifying treaty members.
The UN Secretary General expressed concern over the withdrawals from the treaty.
- Who
- Finland's parliament and President Alexander Stubb.
- What
- Finland withdrew from the Ottawa Convention, which bans landmines.
- When
- Thursday
- Where
- Finland
- Why
- Due to concerns over a military threat from Russia and Russia's use of landmines.
UN Concerns
Finnish Defense
Treaty Adherence vs. National Security
UN Concerns
Withdrawals undermine humanitarian disarmament norms.
Finnish Defense
Withdrawal prioritizes national defense against a neighboring aggressive state.
- Event
- Finland's withdrawal from Ottawa Convention
- Reason
- Russian threat
- Key Figure
- President Alexander Stubb
- Impact
- Allows Finland to stockpile landmines
- International Response
- UN Secretary General expressed concerns