Russian forces have reportedly employed over a dozen types of antipersonnel mines since the onset of their full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This has resulted in numerous civilian casualties and significant contamination of agricultural land. These mines have been deployed manually, through rockets, and, as highlighted by Human Rights Watch, dropped from drones.
In response to Russian aggression, some neighboring countries are contemplating withdrawing from an international treaty that bans antipersonnel mines. While Russia, China, the United States, and several other nations are not signatories to this treaty, many European neighbors of Russia are, including Ukraine.
Human Rights Watch reports that Russian forces have modified commercial quadcopter drones to deploy antipersonnel mines around Kherson. This campaign has led to civilian deaths and injuries. The use of PFM-series antipersonnel mines—also known as “petal” or “butterfly” mines—has been documented on Russian military-affiliated Telegram channels.
The drone attacks have severely restricted residents’ movement in Kherson and access to essential services. These actions violate the laws of war and spread terror among civilians. One resident, Serhii Dolhov, was injured by a mine dropped by a drone near his home.
Human Rights Watch analyzed over 80 photos and videos related to these incidents. A video shows a drone releasing munitions described as PFM antipersonnel mines over Kherson’s Antonivka district. A photo on a Russian military-affiliated Telegram channel showed these mines attached to a DJI-manufactured drone.
These drones scatter the small-sized PFM mines that detonate upon contact with pressure. Residents report difficulty spotting these green or brown-colored mines when they fall among leaves.
Local authorities in Kherson are attempting to warn residents about the dangers through posters and social media alerts. However, demining efforts have been hampered due to the threat posed by drones targeting vehicles and personnel.
Both Russian and Ukrainian forces possess PFM antipersonnel landmines. Despite their new delivery method via drones, these mines remain prohibited under the 1997 Mine Ban Treaty ratified by Ukraine but not Russia.
Russia’s actions contaminate civilian areas long-term, displacing residents or preventing their return. Chinese companies whose drones were used acknowledged awareness of such reports but stated that weaponizing their products contradicts company policies.
Amidst concerns over Europe’s security future post-invasion, Finland and other nations consider withdrawing from the Mine Ban Treaty. Finnish company Insta expressed interest in producing alternative remotely-detonated munitions compliant with international law if Finland exits the treaty.
The U.N.’s Secretary-General raised concerns about renewed production and use of prohibited weapons like antipersonnel mines in his 2025 report on civilian protection during conflicts. The International Committee of the Red Cross president warned against eroding humanitarian norms at a Security Council meeting on May 22.
Using drones for landmine deployment is condemned as barbaric by States parties to the Mine Ban Treaty for contravening efforts to end suffering caused by such weapons.
