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Poland leaves Mine Convention

The decision could change the region's military strategy

Poland leaves Mine Convention

Poland's Deputy Minister of National Defense, Cezary Tomczyk, announced that the country will withdraw from the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines on February 20. According to Tomczyk, Poland is developing border mining sites, but actual mining will only occur in the event of a crisis. The official statement notes that the Ministry of Defense is preparing an 'Eastern Shield'—a combination of engineering barriers and border mining sites.

Poland is not the only country announcing withdrawal from international treaties restricting the use of mines. Lithuania, Finland, and other states have also reported similar decisions.

The message emphasizes that such steps reduce restrictions on military operations and allow NATO countries to prepare in advance for a potential conflict with allied states.

Context

Poland is a member of NATO's Security Council and previously held territory of the former Soviet Union, making it a strategic player in regional security.

Summary:

Poland announced its withdrawal from the Mine Convention on February 20 and plans to prepare sites for mining the border, with actual mining to occur only during a crisis.