Biden approves shipment of antipersonnel mines to Ukraine, reversing previous policy

President Biden has approved the shipment of antipersonnel mines to Ukraine, reversing his previous policy that restricted their use. This decision comes amid significant Russian territorial gains in the ongoing conflict, marking a shift in U.S. military support. Previously, Biden had restored a ban on these mines, citing risks to civilians. The new approval follows a recent decision to provide Ukraine with long-range missiles, allowing strikes deeper into Russian territory. Ukraine is already heavily mined, with about 30% of its land affected. Human Rights Watch has raised concerns about the potential for increased civilian casualties due to the use of these mines.