As the war in Ukraine reaches a critical juncture, President Joe Biden has made the controversial decision to approve the supply of anti-personnel landmines to Ukrainian forces. This move comes on the heels of the administration lifting restrictions on the use of US-made long-range missiles, signaling a significant escalation in American military support for Ukraine.
According to a high-ranking US official who spoke on condition of anonymity, the Biden administration expects Ukraine to deploy these mines within its own territory, with a commitment to avoid using them in areas populated by civilians. The addition of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine’s arsenal is intended to blunt the advance of Russian ground troops, particularly when used in conjunction with other US-provided munitions.
The Landmine Difference: Non-Persistent vs. Persistent
The US-supplied landmines differ from their Russian counterparts in a crucial aspect: they are “non-persistent.” This means that the mines become inert after a preset period, requiring a battery to detonate. Once the battery runs out, the mines will not explode, reducing the long-term risk to civilians. In contrast, persistent mines can remain active and dangerous for years, even after conflicts have ended.
The North Korean Connection
Amid the escalating conflict, reports have emerged that some of the more than 10,000 North Korean troops deployed to the Russian region of Kursk have already participated in battles there. South Korean lawmaker Park Sun-won revealed that the country’s spy agency is still trying to determine the exact number of North Korean troop casualties and whether any have surrendered, citing conflicting information.
Furthermore, North Korea has reportedly shipped additional arms to support the war in Ukraine, including self-propelled howitzers and multiple rocket launchers. This development underscores the complex web of alliances and interests at play in the conflict.
Atacms Missiles and the Threat of Hybrid Warfare
Ukraine’s recent use of US-supplied Atacms missiles to strike into Russian territory has raised concerns about a potential reprisal through hybrid warfare. This chaotic tool of conflict blurs the lines between conventional battlefields and civilian populations, broadening the scope of the frontline.
The strike has also prompted renewed fears of a reprisal through hybrid warfare, a chaotic tool of conflict that muddies borders and broadens the scope of a frontline.
– According to a close source
Moscow has condemned the use of Atacms missiles, the longest-range missiles Washington has yet supplied to Ukraine, as a clear signal that the West seeks to escalate the conflict. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin has lowered the threshold for a nuclear strike on the same day, the 1,000th day of the war.
The Human Cost of Landmines
While the supply of anti-personnel landmines to Ukraine may provide a short-term tactical advantage, the long-term consequences for civilians cannot be ignored. Landmines have historically caused immense suffering, maiming and killing indiscriminately long after conflicts have ended.
- Landmines can remain active for decades, posing a threat to civilians, especially children, who may inadvertently trigger them.
- Clearing landmines is a painstaking and dangerous process, requiring significant resources and expertise.
- The presence of landmines can hinder post-conflict reconstruction and development efforts, as well as the safe return of displaced populations.
As the international community grapples with the escalating conflict in Ukraine, it is crucial to consider the long-term humanitarian impact of the weapons being deployed. The use of anti-personnel landmines, even if intended to slow Russian advances, risks setting a dangerous precedent and exacerbating the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
The war in Ukraine has already claimed countless lives and displaced millions. The introduction of anti-personnel landmines into the equation threatens to prolong the conflict and its devastating consequences for the Ukrainian people. As the world watches with bated breath, it is imperative that all parties prioritize the protection of civilians and work towards a peaceful resolution to this tragic conflict.
