U.S. approves land mines for Ukraine to counter Russian advances

The U.S. will send antipersonnel land mines to Ukraine, marking a significant policy shift in support of Kyiv. These mines will deactivate after a set time and Ukraine has pledged not to use them in civilian areas. This decision comes as Russia continues to advance in eastern Ukraine, capturing territory in the Donetsk region. U.S. officials believe the mines could effectively slow Russian attacks, although their impact remains uncertain. Previously, the Biden administration had committed to limiting the use of such mines due to their risks to civilians. Ukraine is now one of only two countries authorized to use American antipersonnel mines, alongside South Korea.