Ukraine Suspends Participation in Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty Amid Ongoing Conflict
Ukraine has suspended its participation in the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, citing the need to strengthen defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia. This move has drawn objections from Switzerland and other states, who argue that such suspension is incompatible with international law.
On July 15, 2025, Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada passed legislation suspending the country's participation in the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, also known as the Ottawa Convention. This decision was driven by the need to bolster defense capabilities amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, which is not a party to the convention and has reportedly used anti-personnel mines during the conflict.
Switzerland formally objected to Ukraine's suspension, stating that such a move is incompatible with international law. The Swiss Federal Council emphasized that while the convention allows for withdrawal, it does not permit suspension, and any withdrawal would only take effect after the end of an armed conflict.
The President of the Twenty-Second Meeting of the States Parties to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention expressed deep concern over Ukraine's decision, acknowledging the severe security situation but warning that this action could undermine efforts to universalize the convention.
Human Rights Watch also criticized Ukraine's suspension, highlighting that the Mine Ban Treaty is designed to apply during armed conflicts and that such a suspension puts civilians at risk and undermines fundamental humanitarian and legal norms.
The Ottawa Convention, which Ukraine ratified in 2005, prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. Ukraine's suspension has raised concerns among international observers about the potential impact on civilian safety and the integrity of international humanitarian law.
