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Biden Reverses Obama-Era Ban, Approves "Nonpersistent" Land Mines for Ukraine

Nov 20, 2024, 01:49 AM

President Joe Biden has authorized the provision of antipersonnel land mines to Ukraine, reversing an Obama-era ban that prohibited their use outside the Korean Peninsula. This decision comes shortly after the approval of ATACMS missiles for Ukraine and aims to bolster Kyiv's defenses against advancing Russian troops amidst the ongoing conflict. The mines supplied are described as "nonpersistent," designed to self-destruct or deactivate after a set period, thereby reducing long-term risks to civilians. Over 160 countries have signed an international treaty banning landmines due to their enduring harm to civilians, often affecting children long after conflicts end. The move has drawn criticism from arms control groups and members of Biden's own administration, who express concerns over the potential harm to civilians and the reversal of progress made toward eliminating the use of such weapons. Ukraine has reportedly committed to avoiding the deployment of these mines in densely populated areas.