Estonia and Lithuania have officially notified the United Nations of their withdrawal from the international treaty banning the use of landmines, according to both countries’ foreign ministries.
In early June, Estonia’s parliament approved the country’s withdrawal from the 1997 Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use, production, and acquisition of landmines. Estonia officially informed the United Nations on Friday, citing a deteriorating security situation due to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, and expressing fears of a potential Russian invasion similar to those held by other Baltic states.
Lithuania’s Foreign Minister, Kęstutis Budrys, announced on Friday evening via social media platform X that Lithuania has also notified the United Nations of its decision to exit the Ottawa Convention.
He noted that the decision was not made lightly, emphasising that Lithuania perceives “Putin’s Russia as the greatest long-term existential threat to Europe.” He pointed out that Russia is waging war for political purposes, destabilising regions with sabotage, and preparing for a prolonged confrontation. Lithuania requires all available resources to defend itself and its NATO allies, he added.
The parliaments of Latvia and Finland have also decided to withdraw from the treaty. In Poland, the lower house, the Sejm, has already approved the proposal, and the Senate will soon deliberate on it.
The decision will take effect six months after the countries formally notify the United Nations. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged them to reconsider their decision.
