Poland to Withdraw from Landmine Treaty, Bolstering Eastern Border Defenses

Poland's Withdrawal from the Ottawa Treaty

According to Главком: Poland is set to formally withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty on February 20, 2026. This move will permit the country to deploy anti-personnel mines along its eastern border within 48 hours if a threat emerges. As part of its 'East Shield' security strategy, Warsaw will resume production of these mines for the first time since the Cold War, aiming to enhance territorial and border security. This decision marks a significant shift in Poland's defense posture, driven by regional instability.

The withdrawal process was initiated in August of last year. The Ottawa Convention currently prohibits the production and use of anti-personnel mines, so leaving it opens new strategic options for Poland. Deputy Defense Minister Paweł Zalewski stated that the mines are planned for deployment on the eastern border and could also be exported to Ukraine.

Extension of the Border Zone Ban

In a related development, Poland's Ministry of Internal Affairs has published a draft decree to extend a temporary ban on access to areas adjacent to the Belarusian border for another three months. The existing ban is effective until March 4, 2026, with the new proposal extending it for 90 days from March 5. This prohibition covers a border section exceeding 78 kilometers in length, a response to the persistent migration pressure on the Polish-Belarusian frontier.

Polish authorities have also noted a recent increase in launches of meteorological balloons carrying packages of tobacco products from Belarusian territory, raising further concerns. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the project's importance:

“We are in the process of finalizing this mine project, which is crucial for our security, for the security of our territory and border.” - Donald Tusk

Poland's exit from the Ottawa Treaty underscores its determination to strengthen national defense amid growing threats from neighboring Belarus and Russia. The resumption of mine production and intensified border measures reflect the seriousness of the regional security situation. This policy shift could influence relations with neighboring states and the international community, given the sensitive nature of landmine use in armed conflicts.