Finland Withdraws from Ottawa Convention Amid Rising Russian Threats

Amid increasing concerns of military aggression from its neighbor, Finland's parliament has voted to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel landmines. This decision comes as Finland seeks to bolster its defense capabilities in light of threats posed by Russia.

Finland's move to exit the treaty aligns it with other European Union and NATO countries sharing borders with Russia, such as Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Poland. These nations have either exited or are planning to exit the agreement, as unease about the intentions of their larger neighbor mounts.

President Alexander Stubb, a key figure in Finland's foreign and security policy, has voiced his support for the withdrawal. He highlighted Russia's non-membership in the Ottawa Treaty and its extensive use of landmines, notably in its invasion of Ukraine, as justifications for the decision. The Finnish decision mirrors similar legislative actions recently taken by Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

(With inputs from agencies.)