Finland, Poland, and Baltic States Plan Withdrawal from Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty Amid Russian Threat

Date: April 7, 2025

In a significant shift in defense policy, Finland has announced its intention to withdraw from the international treaty banning anti-personnel mines, formally known as the Ottawa Treaty. This decision comes in response to perceived threats from Russia and follows a similar preliminary move by Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.

Announcement of Withdrawal

Finland's Prime Minister, Petteri Orpo, revealed the withdrawal plan during a press conference last week. He cited a transformed security environment in Europe as the catalyst for this decision. “Finland and Europe need to evaluate all measures to strengthen our deterrence and defense capabilities, individually and in NATO,” Orpo stated. He emphasized the necessity for Finland to prepare for withdrawal from the Ottawa Agreement, which prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines.

Finland's move to withdraw also aligns with recent actions taken by its Baltic neighbors, who have indicated a shift in their stance toward the treaty due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Legislative Process and Military Restructuring

Before the withdrawal can be finalized, Finland's parliament must endorse the government's decision. If approved, the withdrawal will take effect six months after that approval is granted.

Alongside the treaty withdrawal announcement, Prime Minister Orpo declared an increase in defense spending to at least three percent of Finland's GDP by 2029. Orpo noted that the reforms would help address challenges posed by a declining security situation, ensuring that Finland's defense remains robust for the foreseeable future.

Historical Context

Finland has a long-standing history regarding anti-personnel mines, having joined the Ottawa Treaty in 2012 and subsequently destroying over a million mines. Neither the United States nor Russia are signatories to the treaty, and the withdrawal reflects a substantial shift in Finland's defense policies, especially as the country recently joined NATO in 2023 after abandoning decades of military non-alignment.

As Finland shares a 1,340-kilometer (830-mile) border with Russia, the security concerns have intensified following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, prompting a reevaluation of military strategies within the region.

Approval from Finland's parliament is now crucial as the country seeks to fortify its defenses in response to rising regional tensions.

Finland’s actions continue to underscore the evolving security landscape in Europe, as NATO member states adapt to new threats and challenges.