Biden approves supply of land mines to Ukraine, reversing U.S. policy

President Joe Biden has approved the supply of antipersonnel land mines to Ukraine, reversing U.S. policy. This decision comes as Ukraine faces challenges from Russian land mines in contested areas and follows recent permissions for Ukraine to strike targets within Russia. The U.S. will provide "nonpersistent" land mines, which are designed to deactivate over time, reducing risks to civilians. This shift in policy contrasts with previous U.S. commitments under the Obama administration to avoid using such weapons, raising concerns among human rights groups about potential civilian harm. Ukraine's request for land mines reflects its ongoing struggle against Russian advances, particularly in eastern regions. The Biden administration has pledged to support mine clearance efforts in Ukraine after the conflict ends, amid growing international debate over the use of land mines.