United States: The United States has approved the transfer of cluster munitions to Ukraine despite opposition from rights advocates advocating for a ban on cluster munitions due to their potential harm to civilians.
The Biden administration defended the decision, arguing that the US-made cluster bombs are less dangerous compared to those used by Russia in the ongoing conflict. The move coincides with Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to counter Russian forces in the eastern part of the country.
“We recognise that cluster munitions create a risk of civilian harm from unexploded ordnance,” US National Security Advisor Mr. Jake Sullivan told reporters.
“This is why we’ve deferred the decision for as long as we could. But there is also a massive risk of civilian harm if Russian troops and tanks roll over Ukrainian positions, take more Ukrainian territory, and subjugate more Ukrainian civilians,” Mr. Sullivan added.
According to the National Security Advisor, cluster munitions would serve as a “bridge” to supplement conventional artillery as the US ramps up production of regular bombs and shells for Ukraine.
“The weapons are part of a tranche of US military assistance to Ukraine that also includes armoured vehicles and anti-armour weapons,” the Pentagon noted.
While cluster munitions are not banned internationally, more than 120 countries, including most NATO members, have signed on to a convention prohibiting their use. The US, Ukraine, and Russia are not parties to that agreement.
Mr. Farhan Haq, a spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General Mr. Antonio Guterres, reiterated the UN chief’s support for the Convention on Cluster Munitions.
“He wants countries to abide by the terms of that convention, and as a result, of course, he does not want there to be continued use of cluster munitions on the battlefield,” Mr. Haq commented.
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