In response to heightened military threats from Russia, the defense ministers of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland have unanimously recommended withdrawing from the 1997 Ottawa Treaty, which forbids the use of anti-personnel mines. This decision comes as Russia's aggression in Ukraine has made the country heavily mined. While planning to exit the treaty, the ministers reaffirm their commitment to humanitarian laws and emphasize that flexibility in their defense strategies is essential for safeguarding NATO's eastern flank. These nations are simultaneously increasing defense spending in reaction to the changing geopolitical landscape.
Military threats to NATO member states bordering Russia and Belarus have significantly increased, and we must adapt our defense strategies accordingly.
Despite our intention to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty, we remain committed to humanitarian law and protecting civilians during armed conflict.
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