According to Pentagon officials cited by the paper, the deployment of these mines is seen as one of the most effective measures to slow Russian advances. However, the decision has drawn criticism from arms control groups, with concerns about civilian safety.
More than 160 nations have signed a treaty banning anti-personnel mines due to the risk they pose to civilians. Critics argue that supplying such weapons to Ukraine could set a controversial precedent.
Ukraine, which has requested the mines since the Russian invasion began nearly three years ago, has assured its allies it will not deploy them in densely populated areas, The Washington Post noted.
"Non-persistent" mines to minimize civilian risk?
The U.S.-supplied mines are classified as "non-persistent," meaning they self-destruct or deactivate within days or weeks, significantly reducing the threat to civilians, according to an American official quoted by the paper.
The U.S. has previously sent Ukraine Claymore mines, which are manually detonated and comply with international conventions when used correctly.
Russia has heavily deployed anti-personnel mines along front lines, hampering Ukraine's ability to reclaim territory, The Washington Post reported. The introduction of U.S. mines is intended to counter this tactic and support Kyiv's military efforts.
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Source: PAP, The Washington Post, BBC