Ukraine's Critical Withdrawal from Ottawa Convention Amidst Russian Threat

In a significant move amidst ongoing conflict, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced Ukraine's withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits anti-personnel mines. The decision comes as a response to Russian military tactics, which Ukraine views as a grave threat.

Zelenskiy stressed that while Russia has never adhered to the Convention, its neighboring countries, including Finland, Poland, and the Baltic states, are following suit in reconsidering their positions. The President highlighted the importance of anti-personnel mines as irreplaceable defense tools in current wartime conditions.

Roman Kostenko, a senior Ukrainian lawmaker, noted that parliamentary approval is still required for the withdrawal to proceed. Despite the hurdles, Kostenko emphasized this as a necessary response to unrestricted Russian aggression. The legislative decision aims to empower Ukraine to defend and reclaim its territory.

(With inputs from agencies.)