This Is a Wake-Up Call for All of Europe: Petteri Orpo

Finland is preparing to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention and reinstate anti-personnel mines. This announcement was made by Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, as reported by TASS.

“Our country is beginning preparations to exit the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel mines. The reason is the growing threat from Russia. Russia is behaving more aggressively. We must be prepared to defend ourselves with any possible means,” Orpo stated.

The Finnish Prime Minister emphasized that the Ottawa Convention bans the use, production, and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines, as well as requires their destruction. “If even a neutral, peace-loving Finland is opening up minefields, it is a wake-up call for all of Europe. The military threat has increased for NATO countries bordering Russia and Belarus. In light of this situation, it is necessary to consider all measures that can strengthen our deterrence and defense capabilities,” the Finnish Prime Minister noted.