In a notable policy change, the US government has sanctioned the delivery of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine, according to sources within the administration. This move comes days after Ukraine received the green light to use long-range missiles against Russian targets, a decision previously achieved after significant lobbying from Kyiv.
The strategy of deploying anti-personnel mines aims to enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities in the eastern region, where Russian forces have been steadily advancing. Reports indicated that Russia’s relentless pressure has stretched Ukraine’s resources thin, allowing Russian troops to make territorial gains. Ukraine’s goal is to employ these mines strictly for defense within its borders, not for offensive actions within Russia.
There have been concerns about the safety of civilians; therefore, the United States has sought assurances from Ukraine to minimize risks to non-combatants. Previous hesitations about supplying these mines stemmed from fears of their indefinite danger, as they could remain active for a long time post-conflict. However, US officials have clarified that the mines supplied will be ‘non-persistent’ with mechanisms to deactivate after a certain duration.
Since the war’s onset, the US has provided anti-tank mines to Ukraine to counter Russia’s armored vehicle superiority. Yet, until now, Biden’s administration avoided supplying anti-personnel mines due to the indiscriminate harm they could cause over an extended period. Human rights organizations have criticized such weaponry because they present long-term threats to civilian populations.
Earlier in the conflict, the US government committed to reducing anti-personnel mines’ global usage, opposing the previous administration’s policies. Efforts have included stopping their production and removal of all current stock, except those reserved for specific situations like in South Korea.
The recent decision on mines marks a significant deviation from this stance, particularly as President Biden’s term nears its conclusion. Meanwhile, Russia has become increasingly assertive with its own mine deployments on the front, complicating any Ukrainian counterattacks.
This latest decision underscores a critical shift in US policy towards the conflict in Ukraine. As the international landscape evolves, the US continues to adapt its strategies, balancing military support with humanitarian concerns.
Source: CNN
