Poland Resumes Production of Anti-Personnel Mines Amid Regional Security Concerns

Poland has announced plans to resume the production of anti-personnel mines for the first time since the Cold War, a move aimed at bolstering its defenses along its eastern border with Belarus and the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad. Deputy Defense Minister Pawel Zalewski confirmed that these mines would be part of the "East Shield" initiative, designed to enhance national security in light of increasing tensions with Russia. This decision aligns with a broader regional trend, as nearly all European nations bordering Russia, except Norway, have indicated intentions to withdraw from the global treaty prohibiting such weapons.

The Straits TimesThe Independent

Poland began the process of withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention in August 2025, which prohibits the production and use of anti-personnel mines. This withdrawal is part of a collective response to perceived threats from Russia, particularly following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Zalewski noted that while Poland's immediate needs would take precedence, any excess production could be supplied to Ukraine, which has also announced its withdrawal from the treaty to better defend itself against Russian aggression.

Poland to resume production of anti-personnel mines to protect its eastern border and for possible export to UkraineThe IndependentThe Straits Times

The state-owned company Belma, which currently produces around 100,000 mines annually, is expected to ramp up production significantly. It could potentially manufacture up to 1.2 million mines of various types by 2026. Zalewski emphasized that the supply of mines to Ukraine would depend on Poland's production capacity, stating, "Our starting point is our own needs. But for us, Ukraine is absolutely a priority because the European and Polish security line is on the Russia-Ukraine front."

The Straits Times

Poland's decision reflects a growing trend among its neighbors. Lithuania and Finland have indicated plans to start producing anti-personnel mines in 2026, while Latvia and Estonia have also signaled intentions to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, with officials in Riga stating they could quickly launch manufacturing if necessary. This regional shift underscores the increasing military preparedness among NATO countries bordering Russia.

The Straits Times

Critics of Poland's decision argue that resuming the production of anti-personnel mines could exacerbate tensions in the region and lead to further militarization. The humanitarian implications of using such weapons, which are often indiscriminate and can harm civilians long after conflicts end, have raised concerns among various human rights organizations.

The Independent

Poland's foreign affairs ministry has indicated that production could commence once the treaty's six-month withdrawal period concludes on February 20, 2026. The Polish government maintains that the move is essential for national security and regional stability.

The Straits Times

• “We are interested in large quantities as soon as possible,” — Pawel Zalewski, Deputy Defense Minister

The Independent

• “Our starting point is our own needs. But for us, Ukraine is absolutely a priority because the European and Polish security line is on the Russia-Ukraine front,” — Pawel Zalewski, Deputy Defense Minister

The Straits Times

This decision marks a significant shift in Poland's defense policy, reflecting the changing security landscape in Eastern Europe and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Straits Times