Amid the conflict in Ukraine, recent events reveal a major shift in US policy. Indeed, the Biden administration has approved sending antipersonnel mines to Ukraine for the first time. This decision comes shortly after the US gave Ukraine permission to fire long-range US missiles at targets in Russia.
This approval of antipersonnel mines is aimed at strengthening Ukrainian defense lines in the eastern part of the country, where Russian troops have been advancing slowly but steadily. It is worth noting that this battle has involved significant losses on the Russian side, according to Ukraine’s claims. However, relentless pressure from Russia, combined with shortages of manpower and ammunition in Ukraine, has allowed the Russian military to gradually gain ground.
The condition set by the US is that Ukraine uses these antipersonnel mines exclusively to strengthen its defense lines on its sovereign territory, and not as an offensive capability against Russia. In addition, the United States has sought assurances that the risks to civilians associated with the use of these mines will be limited.
The US administration has not previously provided antipersonnel mines to Ukraine due to concerns about their continued dangers. Antipersonnel mines are often criticized by human rights organizations for their ability to cause indiscriminate harm and remain active for years after the initial conflict has ended.
Given these challenges, it is crucial to emphasize that the recent US decision to send antipersonnel mines to Ukraine is a significant reversal of long-standing policy. This decision comes at a time when tensions persist and the situation on the ground remains critical.
It is critical to note that the United States will provide Ukraine with “non-persistent” mines, which are designed to become inert after a period of time defined by an internal mechanism. These measures are a strategic response to the current situation and aim to limit the long-term risks associated with the use of anti-personnel mines.
In this context of conflict in Ukraine, the use of anti-personnel mines raises important issues in terms of precaution and respect for humanitarian law. It is necessary to closely monitor the evolution of the situation and remain attentive to the potential impacts of these decisions on civilian populations and stakeholders in the conflict.