Helsinki, January 10 2026, (Agencies) – Finland’s formal withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, which bans the use, production, and stockpiling of anti-personnel landmines, has officially come into effect, Finnish public broadcaster Yle reported. The move marks a significant shift in the country’s defense posture amid heightened regional security concerns.
President Alexander Stubb has said that Finland does not intend to use anti-personnel mines during peacetime and that any such weapons would be stored in military depots. He emphasized that the decision is aimed at preserving national defense options rather than signaling an immediate change in military doctrine.
Russia’s Ambassador to Finland, Pavel Kuznetsov, reacted to the development by saying Moscow is indifferent to Helsinki’s decision. However, he warned that the primary risk posed by landmines would be to Finnish civilians themselves, noting that any mined areas would be located on Finnish territory.
Finland initiated the withdrawal process in November 2024, coordinating the move with Poland and the Baltic states. The countries cited what they described as a growing security threat from Russia as the main reason for retaining the option to deploy anti-personnel mines if deemed necessary.
The Ottawa Convention, adopted in 1997, has been signed by more than 160 countries and is regarded as a cornerstone of international humanitarian disarmament efforts. Finland’s exit is expected to draw scrutiny from human rights groups, while supporters argue the decision reflects evolving security realities in Northern and Eastern Europe.