Poland prepares to lay mines to defend eastern borders from Russian threat

Poland on Friday formally withdrew from the Ottawa Treaty, an international convention that bans anti-personnel landmines, paving the way for their deployment along its eastern borders. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the country aimed to be able to mine Read More …

Do anti-personnel mines still have military utility in modern warfare?

Five States Parties to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention have recently submitted instruments of withdrawal, citing national security and military necessity, while at least one other has taken steps to “suspend” the Convention. These developments raise important questions about whether Read More …

Poland adds minefields to ‘East Shield’ protective barrier with Russia and Belarus

Authorities in Warsaw say they have added minefields to the “East Shield” project, the name given to the protective barrier at the border with Russia and Belarus. Construction began in November last year and now occurs year-round, seven days a Read More …

Campaigners sound alarm as European nations move to exit landmine ban

Rights groups have expressed alarm and warned of a slippery slope of again embracing one of the world’s most treacherous weapons, after five European countries said they intend to withdraw from the international treaty banning antipersonnel landmines. In announcing their Read More …

Ukraine: International partners to allocate EUR 700M for demining equipment

The long-term plan for developing Ukraine’s demining capacity for 2024-2034 includes an allocation of €700 million from partners for equipment procurement. This was discussed at the 11th Meeting of the Demining Capability Coalition in Vilnius, chaired by Lithuania and Iceland, Read More …