Ukraine’s Landmine Scandal: A Promised Inquiry into Banned Use

Ukraine Promises Inquiry into Banned Landmine Use

Additional Evidence Underscores Need for Prompt, Thorough Investigation, Accountability

June 30, 2023

KYIV — The Ukrainian government has pledged to conduct an investigation into the alleged use of banned antipersonnel landmines by its military forces. This commitment comes in response to reports by Human Rights Watch and other groups that Ukraine used these weapons during operations to retake territory from Russian forces. The government’s statement, made at a recent meeting of the Mine Ban Treaty in Geneva, is a significant step towards accountability and the protection of civilians.

Ukrainian Government’s Duty to Protect Civilians

Human Rights Watch has welcomed the Ukrainian government’s commitment to investigate its military’s use of banned antipersonnel landmines. According to Steve Goose, the arms director at Human Rights Watch, this pledge demonstrates the government’s recognition of its duty to protect civilians. A prompt, transparent, and thorough inquiry into the alleged use of these indiscriminate weapons could have far-reaching benefits for Ukrainians now and in the future.

Additional Evidence of Ukrainian Use of Antipersonnel Mines

Since publishing a report in January, Human Rights Watch has uncovered further evidence of Ukrainian use of antipersonnel mines in 2022. The organization shared these findings with the Ukrainian government in a letter on May 28, 2023, but has not received a response. One piece of evidence includes photos posted online by an individual working in an area of eastern Ukraine where the government regained control after Russian forces retreated. These photos show remnants of artillery rockets, including warhead sections that contain antipersonnel blast mines.

Human Rights Watch conducted a thorough analysis of the markings on these remnants and identified two 9N128K3 warhead sections of 9M27K3 Uragan 220mm rockets, which exclusively carry and disperse PFM-1S antipersonnel blast mines. The markings indicate that these rockets were produced in 1986 at a USSR munitions factory. Furthermore, there is evidence of Ukrainian handwriting and phrases written on the rockets, which match the identities of individuals associated with a Kyiv-based organization that made donations to the Ukrainian military in 2022.

The Importance of the Investigation

The Ukrainian government’s investigation into the use of antipersonnel mines should thoroughly address the evidence provided by Human Rights Watch and other organizations. It should also aim to hold those responsible for the use of these banned weapons to account. The inquiry should not stop at identifying and assisting victims, but also provide appropriate compensation, medical and other forms of assistance, including prosthetics and ongoing rehabilitation needs.

As a signatory to the Mine Ban Treaty, Ukraine has a legal obligation to destroy its stocks of antipersonnel mines and ensure the clearance of mined areas. The investigation should be conducted in accordance with international law and demonstrate Ukraine‘s commitment to upholding the principles of the treaty.

Russian Forces’ Use of Antipersonnel Mines

It is important to note that Russian forces have also been documented using antipersonnel mines in their invasion of Ukraine since February 24, 2022. Human Rights Watch has published multiple reports on the Russian use of these indiscriminate weapons, which have resulted in civilian deaths and injuries. While Russia has not joined the Mine Ban Treaty, its use of antipersonnel mines violates international humanitarian law.

Editorial: Upholding International Humanitarian Law

The use of antipersonnel landmines is a clear violation of international humanitarian law. These weapons are indiscriminate and pose a significant threat to civilian populations even long after armed conflicts end. The Mine Ban Treaty, signed by 164 states, including Ukraine, prohibits the use, production, and stockpiling of antipersonnel mines. It also requires the clearance of mined areas and assistance to victims.

Ukraine‘s commitment to investigating the use of antipersonnel mines by its military is a positive step towards accountability and compliance with international law. It is essential that the government follows through on this promise and conducts a thorough and transparent inquiry, revealing the truth behind the alleged use of these banned weapons.

The findings of the investigation should not only lead to accountability for those responsible but also contribute to efforts to prevent future use of antipersonnel mines. Ukraine must take the necessary steps to ensure that its military forces are fully aware of and comply with international humanitarian law principles.

Advice: Protecting Civilians and Upholding International Norms

The Ukrainian government should prioritize the protection of civilians and take immediate action to prevent the use of antipersonnel mines by its military. As a signatory to the Mine Ban Treaty, Ukraine has a legal obligation to destroy its stocks of these weapons and ensure the clearance of mined areas. It should also provide assistance to victims, including appropriate compensation, medical care, prosthetics, and ongoing rehabilitation.

Furthermore, Ukraine should increase its efforts to educate and train its military personnel on the principles of international humanitarian law. By doing so, it can ensure that its forces understand the devastating consequences of using antipersonnel mines and comply with the norms established by the international community.

Finally, the international community must continue to support the efforts of organizations like Human Rights Watch in documenting human rights abuses and exposing violations of international humanitarian law. By shining a light on these issues, we can hold governments accountable and work towards a world free from the indiscriminate use of weapons that harm civilians.

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