Biden Approves Antipersonnel Land Mines for Ukraine, Reversing Policy, Say Two U.S. Officials

Nov 20, 2024, 01:09 AM

President Joe Biden has authorized the provision of antipersonnel land mines to Ukraine, reversing a ban set by the Obama administration and undoing his own policy. This decision aims to bolster Kyiv’s defenses against advancing Russian troops but has drawn criticism from arms control groups. The mines are described as 'nonpersistent,' meaning they self-destruct or lose battery charge to reduce danger to civilians. Ukrainian officials have assured that the mines will not be used in densely populated areas, according to two U.S. officials.