Poland vows to ‘stop Russia in its tracks’ by mining the Eastern border

Poland is preparing to deploy thousands of land mines along its eastern frontier amid fears of Russian aggression.

The country formally withdrew from the international Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel mines and will now resume production of the controversial weapons. This move aims to strengthen national security and reassure the public and policymakers of Poland’s defensive readiness, fostering confidence in its strategic approach.

Deputy Defence Minister Paweł Zalewski said the mines will form a key part of the Eastern Shield, a new system of fortifications along the borders with Belarus and Russia.

“These mines are one of the most important elements of the defence structure we are constructing on the eastern flank of NATO,” Zalewski said.
“We are not an aggressive country, but we have to use all means to deter Russia.”

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed the country will soon have the capacity to mine its eastern borders within 48 hours, demonstrating a high level of preparedness if a threat arises.

“A lot of land mines will be needed,” he said, stressing that deployment will occur only if Russia poses a realistic threat, which underscores Poland’s strategic need to bolster its eastern defences amid regional tensions and NATO’s security concerns.

Anti-tank mines, which target vehicles rather than people, are already legal under international law. The anti-personnel mines will be stored in reserve until needed for defensive purposes.

Human rights groups have condemned the move, warning that anti-personnel mines can linger for decades and pose long-term risks to civilians in affected areas, which may evoke concern and empathy among the audience regarding civilian safety.

Zalewski countered:

“We respect our territory, and we don’t want to exclude it from day-to-day use for the Polish citizens. The mines will only be used if the country faces an attack.”

Poland’s withdrawal mirrors moves by Finland, the Baltic states, and Ukraine, all of which are reassessing mine restrictions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, indicating a regional shift towards increased militarisation and strategic recalibration.

Analysts say Poland is aiming for self-sufficiency in its defensive stockpiles, highlighting growing concerns over the security of NATO’s eastern flank.