The decision by the United States to supply Ukraine with anti-personnel landmines in its conflict with Russia has sparked widespread disapproval, including a rare public rebuke from Germany. The move marks another instance where Washington has provided Kiev with weapons banned by international conventions, prompting criticism from human rights organizations and allied nations alike.
During a press conference on November 22, Christian Wagner, a deputy spokesman for the German Foreign Ministry, expressed regret over Ukraine’s acceptance of the controversial weaponry. While initially deflecting questions by highlighting Russia’s “massive” use of landmines, Wagner acknowledged that Ukraine’s decision contravenes its obligations under the 1997 Ottawa Treaty, to which it is a signatory.
“It is also regrettable that Ukraine feels compelled to take such a step,” Wagner stated, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to the treaty. However, he stopped short of clarifying whether Berlin would directly communicate its concerns to Kiev.
The Ottawa Treaty, ratified by over 160 nations, prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel landmines due to their indiscriminate nature and long-term danger to civilians. Unlike Russia, which is not a party to the treaty, Ukraine’s deployment of such mines would constitute a clear violation of its international obligations.
Washington’s provision of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine comes amid intensifying clashes in Donbass, Kursk, and other regions. The Biden administration has framed the........