Finland has announced its intention to withdraw from the international treaty that bans antipersonnel mines, known as the Ottawa Convention, due to escalating concerns regarding security in the region stemming from Russia’s aggressive actions. President Alexander Stubb made this declaration on Tuesday, emphasizing the country’s commitment to its defense strategy.
Finland’s strategic shift in defense policy
In a statement shared on X, Stubb noted, “Finland will prepare for the withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention.” He elaborated that this decision follows a comprehensive evaluation conducted by the relevant ministries and the Defence Forces of Finland. He reassured the public that the country remains dedicated to international obligations concerning the responsible use of mines.
The Ottawa Convention, which came into force in 1999, has faced intensified scrutiny, particularly in light of the war in Ukraine and its implications for neighboring nations. In recent developments, Poland and the three Baltic states have also signaled their intention to leave the treaty, highlighting a broader shift in regional defense postures.
Increased defense spending amid geopolitical tensions
Alongside the withdrawal from the treaty, Stubb confirmed that Finland plans to allocate 3 percent of its GDP to defense spending by 2029, an increase from the current 2.4 percent slated for 2024. This commitment exceeds NATO’s standard defense spending target of 2 percent, which is anticipated to be under discussion for revision at the upcoming June summit in The Hague.
“This is a part of Finland’s contribution to Europe taking greater responsibility for our own defence,” Stubb remarked, underscoring the nation’s strategic pivot in response to regional threats.
Over the weekend, President Stubb made an unannounced visit to Florida, where he engaged in discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As he positions himself as a potential mediator for European interests, Stubb has indicated that discussions among European leaders concerning engagement with Russian President Vladimir Putin are becoming increasingly pertinent.