Latvia Exits Land Mine Convention Amid Fears of Russian Aggression

Latvia has voted to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel mines, citing Russia's aggression against Ukraine. This makes it the first country in its region to exit the treaty. The move follows a decision by three Baltic States and Poland last month. Defense ministers from these countries said the military threats from Russia have increased significantly since its invasion of Ukraine. Finland has also announced plans to leave the treaty, which could lead to more Eastern European nations following suit. This mass withdrawal would undermine post-Cold War hopes to eliminate weapons harmful to civilians.