Finland Cites Russian Aggression as Primary Catalyst for Strategic Withdrawal From Global Landmine Treaty

Under-Secretary Outi Holopainen explains Finland's withdrawal from the Ottawa Treaty as a necessary defense measure due to Russian aggression and NATO shifts.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 19, 2026, 10:15 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Anadolu Agency

National Security Concerns Drive Treaty Exit

Finland has officially designated the volatile security situation in Northern Europe as the decisive factor in its withdrawal from the Ottawa Treaty, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel mines. Outi Holopainen, the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Security Policy, stated during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum that while the decision was difficult, it was necessitated by the current geopolitical reality. According to Holopainen, sharing an 833-mile border with a nation currently engaged in full-scale warfare forced Helsinki to prioritize national defense over previous disarmament commitments.

Balancing International Law and Defense Interests

Despite the withdrawal, Holopainen emphasized that Finland remains a staunch advocate for international law and a rules-based global order. The government’s reassessment involved weighing Finland’s long-standing history in arms control against the immediate need to safeguard its territory. A significant factor in this evaluation was Russia’s non-participation in the landmine treaty, which created a strategic imbalance. Holopainen noted that while the current environment is severe enough to mandate withdrawal, Finland presently has no landmines deployed and remains committed to avoiding risks to civilian populations.

NATO Alliance Response and European Responsibility

The diplomatic transition was managed through a transparent dialogue with NATO members, who reportedly offered no major objections to the Finnish strategy. Holopainen framed the decision within a broader shift toward strengthening the European pillar of NATO, arguing that European nations must shoulder more responsibility for their own security through increased defense investments. According to Holopainen, the strength of the transatlantic bond relies on a combination of increased European self-reliance and the continued military commitment from Washington.