The Biden administration has made a significant policy shift by approving the sending of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine for the first time, according to two US officials. This decision follows the recent authorization for Ukraine to use long-range US missiles against targets in Russia, a move that came after persistent lobbying efforts from Kyiv.
While the US has previously supplied Ukraine with anti-tank mines to counter Russia's armored vehicles, concerns over the indiscriminate and long-lasting danger posed by anti-personnel mines had prevented their provision until now. Human rights groups have criticized the use of these mines due to their potential to cause harm to civilians and remain active long after a conflict has ended.
The anti-personnel mines are intended for use in eastern Ukraine, where Russian forces have been advancing slowly against Ukrainian defenses. Despite significant losses on the Russian side, ongoing pressure and resource challenges have allowed Moscow to gain ground gradually.
The US has specified that the mines should be used by Ukraine to strengthen defensive positions within its territory and not for offensive actions against Russia. Additionally, assurances have been sought to ensure that measures are taken to minimize the risk to civilians from these mines.
