President Joe Biden has authorized the provision of anti-personnel land mines to Ukraine, according to a U.S. official, marking a significant step to counter Russian advances in eastern Ukraine. These mines, designed to slow Russian ground troops, will complement other munitions supplied by the United States.
The U.S. expects Ukraine to deploy these mines within its own territory while avoiding use in areas populated by civilians, in line with commitments to minimize harm to non-combatants. The Washington Post first reported this development, which was later confirmed by the U.S. official under anonymity.
Previously, the U.S. had supplied Ukraine with anti-tank mines, but this marks an escalation aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. Unlike Russian land mines, the U.S.-supplied mines are described as “non-persistent,” meaning they become inert after a set time. Powered by batteries, they require an electrical charge to detonate and cease functioning once the battery is depleted.
This new aid reflects ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine in its war against Russia while attempting to balance military objectives with international concerns about the indiscriminate effects of land mines. The move highlights the evolving tactics to address the challenges posed by Russia’s military operations.
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