In light of rising threats from Russia, Finland has made the controversial decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, which previously prohibited the use of infantry mines. This move reflects a shift in national defense strategy, prioritizing immediate military readiness over international disarmament agreements. As a result, Finnish conscripts are expected to undergo training to reacquire these capabilities, which have been dormant in Finland since the treaty was signed.

The Ottawa Convention, which came into force in 1999, aims to eliminate anti-personnel mines globally, fundamentally altering how nations approach land warfare. Finland's departure from this agreement underscores the intensifying security concerns in the Baltic region, driven largely by Russia's actions. This policy shift not only has implications for Finnish military tactics but may also affect Finland's political relationships with other nations committed to the treaty, especially within the EU and NATO.

As Finland navigates this new military landscape, the reintegration of infantry mines into their operational doctrine raises questions about the effectiveness and ethical considerations of such weapons in modern warfare. The decision to train soldiers to handle these mines poses broader implications for ongoing discussions about arms control and could signal a significant transformation in Finland's defense posture in the face of potential aggression from Russia.