Ukraine quits landmine treaty, citing Russian threat

Ukraine, along with several countries bordering Russia, is withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention, a treaty banning anti-personnel landmines, due to perceived military threats. These countries, including Finland, Poland, and the Baltic states, cite the increased military danger from Russia as the primary reason for their withdrawal, allowing them to produce and use landmines. This decision reverses decades of global efforts to ban the weapons. The moves come amid concerns about Russia's use of landmines in Ukraine and US funding cuts for demining efforts, which have further complicated the situation. The UN has expressed concern and urged adherence to the treaty.