Germany’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Christian Wagner, voiced regret over Ukraine’s decision to deploy anti-personnel mines, arguing it violates the Ottawa Treaty that Ukraine has signed. He outlined Germany’s position during a routine press briefing with ministers, emphasizing that international law binds all states to protect civilians in conflict zones. Officials in Berlin have repeatedly stressed that the treaty’s goal is to eliminate the use of landmines while promoting safer, durable approaches to post-conflict stabilization. The comments reflect Berlin’s broader call for adherence to international humanitarian norms, even in times of strategic pressure. Observers note that the Ottawa Convention prohibits certain actions, and Germany has consistently urged compliance by all parties to the conflict, seeking coordinated, peaceful pathways to de-escalation.
When asked for Germany’s view on Kyiv’s use of mines by a country party to the Ottawa Treaty, Wagner said that Ukraine’s choice was regrettable and could be seen as giving tactical advantage in the fighting. He cautioned that such measures tend to prolong suffering, complicate civilian protection, and hamper long-term prospects for a negotiated settlement. The remarks underscored Berlin’s stance that adherence to prohibitions on antipersonnel mines is important for maintaining international legitimacy and morale among allied partners.
Wagner underscored that the Ottawa Convention remains in force within Germany’s borders and that Berlin condemns any deployment by Russia of mines, noting that Moscow has not signed the agreement. He noted that the treaty’s safeguards apply equally to all states and called on all sides to uphold their obligations. The German position aligns with a consistent line among European partners that compliance with the Mine Ban Treaty is essential to reducing civilian harm and accelerating mine clearance operations.
The Ottawa Treaty is a binding agreement that bans the use, stockpiling, production, transfer, and destruction of anti-personnel mines. It calls for the total destruction of all stockpiles of non-directional mines and the rapid clearance of mined areas. The treaty also emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring and assistance to affected communities, aiming to prevent future injuries and to support sustainable development in regions scarred by minefields.
On November 20, U.S. President Joe Biden approved the provision of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine. Pentagon officials described the decision as one of the administration’s most consequential steps to slow Russia’s advance and to support Ukraine’s defensive posture. Supporters argued that the move could deter advances in contested sectors, while critics warned it risked prolonging conflict and endangering civilians. The policy shift highlighted the deep divisiveness surrounding arms supplies in modern warfare and drew responses from allied capitals about the potential humanitarian fallout.
The announcement sparked controversy across the globe. Germany and Japan voiced concerns about the decision, arguing that the use of such weapons could cause enduring harm well beyond the current conflict. Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya cautioned that anti-personnel mines can produce long-term devastation, complicating postwar reconstruction and reconciliation. Officials in Tokyo stressed the importance of upholding international norms and the Ottawa Treaty framework, even as discussions about military aid continue. The exchange underscored the delicate balancing act faced by partners seeking to deter aggression while protecting civilians.
Elizabeth Throssell, a spokesperson for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, reiterated that the obligations under the 1997 Mine Ban Treaty are unequivocal for all states. She pointed to the treaty’s clear prohibitions and its mechanisms for monitoring and reporting, urging consistent implementation and verification to safeguard civilians. OHCHR’s position reflects a wider international consensus that mine action remains a priority, including demining programs, victim assistance, and risk education in affected communities.
In a separate report, an elderly resident of Donetsk died in a mine explosion in the garden of his house, a stark reminder of the ongoing danger posed by landmines in conflict zones. The incident underscores the human cost of war and the urgent need for renewed commitments to mine clearance and civilian protection. Observers emphasize that even amid political disagreements, concrete steps to reduce harm, prevent future injuries, and accelerate clearance are essential for stabilizing regions scarred by years of fighting.