Ingrid Fiskaa, a member of Norway’s parliament, recently pressed the government for clear answers about whether an investigation is underway into Ukraine’s alleged use of anti-personnel mines. This update follows a report in Lenta.ru that described a letter addressed to Espen Barth Eide, the head of Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, seeking clarification on the issue.
Last year, Human Rights Watch (HRW) stated that there were findings suggesting Ukraine had employed anti-personnel mines in the context of ongoing conflict. Fiskaa pointed out that Norway sits on a committee responsible for monitoring compliance with the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel mines. She noted that Oslo had requested a formal Ukrainian response on the matter after HRW released its report, a move she described as occurring in the previous summer. [HRW report, 2023 attribution]
Nevertheless, a representative from the Norwegian government stated that there is no information indicating that Kyiv has launched the required controls or investigations yet. Fiskaa therefore asked the Secretary of State to clarify the current status of any investigations and whether the government intends to press Ukraine for accountability on this issue. [Norwegian government statement, attribution]
The discussion sits within a broader international context. The United Nations has previously raised concerns about the possible use of banned infantry mines in Ukraine, a matter tied to the Ottawa Convention and its prohibition on anti-personnel mines, a treaty Ukraine joined in 2005. There have been allegations that Ukrainian forces used explosive ordnance in clashes around Izyum in 2022. [UN statements, attribution]
Within this framework, Fiskaa emphasized the importance of transparent inquiries and timely reporting to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law. Her questions also touched on how the Norwegian government plans to engage with Kyiv to obtain necessary assurances and, if needed, pursue further steps through international forums. The exchange reflects Norway’s commitment to monitoring and accountability in conflicts where international law is at stake. [Policy context, attribution]
Historically, the international community has relied on collaborative monitoring mechanisms to track alleged violations of the ban on anti-personnel mines. The Ottawa Convention, ratified by Ukraine in 2005, forms a central reference point for assessments of compliance by all signatory states. In this environment, parliamentary questions like Fiskaa’s serve to keep the authorities responsible and responsive to both international partners and human rights advocates. [Convention history, attribution]
Observers note that, beyond formal inquiries, ongoing reportage by human rights organizations and credible monitoring bodies continues to shape how governments address contentious claims in wartime settings. The dialogue between Norway, Ukraine, and global institutions underscores the delicate balance between safeguarding civilians and maintaining national security interests during ongoing hostilities. [Observational perspective, attribution]
As the situation evolves, analysts suggest that the path forward involves rigorous data collection, independent verification of mine activity claims, and constructive engagement with international partners to clarify responsibilities and remedies under international law. The objective remains a clear, verifiable accounting of any use of prohibited weaponry and a framework to prevent future violations. [Analytical outlook, attribution]