Image reproduced from 自由

The Finnish Parliament voted overwhelmingly on the 19th to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty, a decision aimed at strengthening national security in response to the growing military threats from Russia. The withdrawal bill was passed with 157 votes in favor and 18 against, allowing Finland to deploy landmines and other defensive measures, enhancing its strategic flexibility and strengthening its defenses along NATO's northern flank.

Defense Minister Antti Kaikkonen expressed his support for the withdrawal before the vote, stating that Finland shares a border of 1,340 kilometers with Russia and must take necessary measures to mitigate the risk of attack. He reiterated that countering the Russian threat is of utmost urgency.

The Ottawa Treaty, signed in 1997 and effective in 1999, is an international agreement that prohibits the use of antipersonnel mines. Notably, both the United States and Russia have not signed this treaty. Since the outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian war, the security threats posed by Russia to Europe have significantly increased, prompting Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia to jointly announce their withdrawal from the treaty in March this year, taking all necessary measures to safeguard their national security. Finland's action joins a series of important decisions made by NATO members in response to the evolving geopolitical landscape.

The Finnish Parliament's decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty highlights the need to enhance national defense in the current situation. For Finland, this is not just a legal change but a significant strategic shift. As concerns about Russia's military actions escalate, Finland's decision is undoubtedly part of a broader effort to strengthen its self-defense in a complex international security environment.