The Riigikogu passed a new law today, June 4th. This law prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. It also requires the destruction of mines. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said that this decision shows that Estonia is ready to defend its land and freedom.
Tsahkna said that withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention gives the Estonian Defense Forces more freedom to choose weapons and solutions. This will help strengthen Estonia's defense capabilities. He hopes that the president will soon promulgate the law.
The Ottawa Convention came into force in 1999. Estonia joined it in 2004. Tsahkna said that over the past 20 years, the security situation has deteriorated. This is caused by Russia's war in Ukraine. Therefore, withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention is the right decision for Estonia.
Tsahkna said that Russia is a major threat to both Ukraine and all of Europe. Russia uses anti-personnel mines in the war. Estonia must not impose too many restrictions on the use of weapons. Otherwise, Estonia would be in a weaker position.
Estonia will continue to comply with international humanitarian law. Estonia aims to reduce the impact of war on civilians and help war victims. This also includes mine clearance projects.
In addition to Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Finland have also started the process of withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention. In Latvia and Lithuania, the parliaments have already passed the corresponding laws. In Finland and Poland, it will be discussed in the near future.
Tsahkna said that the NATO Eastern Flank countries are sending a clear message with this decision. They are ready to use all necessary measures to protect their land and freedom. These decisions are difficult, but due to the security situation, all options need to be considered.
Withdrawal from the convention will take effect six months after the notification is submitted. This applies if the country is not at war during that time.