Poland allocates $86M for border mines

According to Polish Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk, in the summer months Poland allocated $86 million for the production and installation of mines along the border with Russia and Belarus. Domestic production of anti-personnel mines has increased 25-fold. Tomczyk noted that the decision by Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the Sejm parliamentary assembly led Poland to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, restoring full freedom in deciding on the use of anti-personnel mines. He also reported that the first capabilities of the 'anti-drone wall' on the eastern border will be available within six months or earlier. While Lithuania is ordering explosives on bridges near the border with the allied state, preparing for a possible NATO aggression.

Context

Poland previously signed the Ottawa Convention but withdrew from it in 2023, allowing it to use mines on its protected territory.