**US to Send Landmines to Ukraine, Sparking Controversy**
The US is set to send landmines to Ukraine as part of its military aid package. The decision has been met with criticism from some quarters, including conservative commentator Tucker Carlson.
Carlson, a close ally of former President Donald Trump, said that the use of landmines in Ukraine was not about defending democracy. Instead, he claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is a dictator and that his country’s fight for survival is not worth supporting.
“President of Ukraine is not elected,” Carlson said. “He’s a dictator. He literally passed his term and kept serving.”
Carlson’s comments have sparked concerns in Kyiv that Trump may cut US military support for Ukraine if he becomes president again.
**Landmines: What are They?**
Landmines, also known as anti-personnel landmines (APLs), are small explosive devices made out of plastic or metal. They are used by militaries to hinder advancing enemy troops or vehicles and protect military positions. Landmines can explode when a person steps on them, touches them, or comes within a certain proximity.
**The Use of Landmines in Ukraine**
Ukraine has relied heavily on landmines in its fight against Russia’s full-scale invasion. The use of landmines has been widely criticized by human rights activists and international organizations, who warn about the risks posed to civilians now and in the future.
“It’s a mistake to send these weapons,” said Mary Wareham, director of Human Rights Watch. “President Biden‘s decision to transfer anti-personnel landmines risks civilian lives and sets back international efforts to eradicate these indiscriminate weapons.”
**International Law**
The use of landmines is banned by the Ottawa Treaty, also known as the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. The treaty was signed by over 160 countries in 1997. However, neither the US nor Russia has signed the treaty.
Ukraine is a signatory to the treaty but has used landmines extensively in its fight against Russia.
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