Ukraine Considering Withdrawal from Ottawa Treaty Amid Ongoing War with Russia

President Zelenskyy Cites Russia’s Use of Landmines as Justification

Kyiv, Ukraine – July 3, 2025
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Sunday that Ukraine is seriously considering withdrawing from the Ottawa Treaty, a global agreement banning the use of antipersonnel landmines. The potential move comes as Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia’s prolonged and brutal military invasion. 

“Russia Uses Mines with Extreme Cynicism”

In a public address, President Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia has never been a party to the Ottawa Convention, formally known as the Mine Ban Treaty, and has shown no restraint in deploying antipersonnel mines during the conflict.

“Russia has never been a party to this convention and uses antipersonnel mines with extreme cynicism,” Zelenskyy said.
“As we defend our country, our people, and our freedom, we must consider all means of protecting our territory and military personnel.”

Security Concerns Override International Commitments

Signed in 1997 and ratified by over 160 countries, the Ottawa Treaty prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of antipersonnel landmines. Ukraine became a party to the treaty in 2005. However, with Russian forces employing landmines indiscriminately, Kyiv argues that the treaty puts Ukraine at a tactical disadvantage.

Zelenskyy’s remarks suggest that the realities on the battlefield may be forcing Ukraine to reassess its obligations under international law in order to protect its citizens and military forces more effectively.

International Reactions Expected

Ukraine’s potential departure from the treaty is likely to draw criticism from international humanitarian groups, including the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) and the United Nations. These groups have long advocated for the elimination of landmines due to their indiscriminate and long-lasting dangers to civilians.

However, some of Ukraine’s allies may be sympathetic to the shift, acknowledging the desperate conditions under which Ukraine is fighting a far larger and less restrained aggressor.

A Strategic and Symbolic Shift

With the war entering its fourth year, Ukraine’s strategy is increasingly shaped by harsh battlefield realities rather than international norms alone. Exiting the Ottawa Treaty would mark a symbolic shift in Ukraine’s defense policy — signaling a readiness to use any necessary means to counter Russian aggression.

The government has not provided a specific timeline for a final decision on the treaty but confirmed that consultations are underway within Ukraine’s defense and foreign ministries.

Looking Ahead

As Ukraine weighs its options, the world will be watching closely. The country’s decision could set a precedent for other nations facing similar existential threats and reignite global debates about the role of international arms control treaties during wartime.