US Approves Antipersonnel Land Mines for Ukraine

The Biden administration, through Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, has authorized Ukraine to use American-supplied antipersonnel land mines to counter Russian military advances, citing a shift in Russian tactics on the battlefield. Austin emphasized that these mines will be non-persistent, featuring mechanisms that allow for self-deactivation, aimed at reducing risks to civilians. This policy shift marks a significant departure from the global consensus against landmines, as many countries have banned them under the Ottawa Treaty due to their indiscriminate nature. The U.S. has sought assurances from Ukraine that the mines will only be deployed on its territory where civilian populations are not at risk. The decision is framed as a strategic necessity amid ongoing aerial assaults and drone warfare between Russia and Ukraine. Other Western embassies have temporarily closed in Kyiv, reflecting rising security concerns.