Ukraine will now be permitted to deploy anti-personnel land mines, a decision by the Biden administration that reverses a policy the president had previously enacted at the start of his term. This move aims to counter Russia’s advances on the battlefield.
An official from the U.S. confirmed that the country will soon supply Ukraine with non-persistent anti-personnel land mines, emphasizing their role in enhancing defensive capabilities, particularly in eastern regions. These mines, combined with other U.S.-provided weaponry, are expected to blunt Russian ground forces effectively.
The U.S. has already delivered anti-tank mines to Ukraine but had previously reinstated an Obama-era policy in 2022, under President Biden, that limited the use of anti-personnel mines.
Experts say new U.S. mines could offset Russia’s extensive minefields in Donetsk region
Russia, however, has continued to employ land mines throughout Ukraine. Activists and human rights groups have long criticized these weapons for their potential to endanger civilians long after conflicts conclude, a concern echoed during the 2023 approval of cluster munitions for Ukraine.
The U.S. official noted that Ukraine has agreed to strict measures for the responsible use of these mines to mitigate civilian risks. Designed to deactivate after a set timeframe, ranging from hours to weeks, the mines require a battery for detonation and cannot function once triggered. Unlike the mines used indiscriminately by Russia, these are non-persistent, reducing their long-term hazards.
Ukraine faces mounting pressure from Russian forces, particularly along a 600-mile front in the Donetsk region. As Ukraine seeks to bolster its defenses, the U.S. has prioritized delivering security aid, including a $275 million package, although it did not initially include anti-personnel mines.
Experts like Bradley Bowman, from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, highlighted that Russian minefields hindered Ukraine’s counteroffensive efforts in 2023. He suggested that providing Ukraine with similar capabilities would improve its defense and survival against advancing Russian forces.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed plans to send non-persistent land mines, emphasizing their safer design compared to traditional mines. This decision coincides with the U.S. approving long-range missile use by Ukraine, a move that has angered Russia and prompted concerns from Trump allies. Trump, now president-elect, has vowed to end the conflict quickly, raising speculation about his approach to the war.
The Kremlin has warned that granting Ukraine access to certain missile systems could be perceived as direct NATO involvement in the conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously lowered the threshold for nuclear weapons use and framed any aggression supported by nuclear states as a joint attack on Russia. The approval of anti-personnel mines and long-range missiles by the U.S. underscores escalating tensions in the region.
