In a recent development, the White House has acknowledged that Ukraine is utilizing US-made cluster bombs, a concerning situation that poses a threat to civilians, in its conflict against Russian forces within the country.
John Kirby, the spokesperson for the National Security Council, stated that initial reports suggest these cluster bombs have been used “effectively” in targeting Russian defensive positions and sites.
Cluster bombs scatter multiple smaller bomblets upon detonation, and they have been banned by over 100 countries due to their indiscriminate nature and potential harm to civilians.
The United States has approved the supply of these cluster bombs to Ukraine, with assurances from Kyiv that they will only be employed to strike Russian troop formations.
Kirby emphasized that Ukraine is using the cluster bombs in an appropriate and effective manner, already impacting Russia’s defensive formations.
This decision to supply cluster bombs came after Ukraine warned of depleting ammunition during its counteroffensive in the summer, which proved to be slower and costlier than anticipated.
President Joe Biden referred to the decision as “very difficult,” but some of the U.S.’s allies, including the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Spain, have opposed the use of these munitions.
The majority of the cluster bombs supplied have a sub-munition “dud rate” of less than 2.35%, indicating the percentage of bomblets that do not explode immediately and can remain a threat for years.
These weapons are particularly effective when used against forces in trenches and fortified positions, as they render large areas more dangerous to traverse and control.
It is important to note that Russia has also employed similar cluster bombs in Ukraine since the onset of the conflict last year.
In response to the US’ decision to supply these munitions, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that his country possesses comparable weapons and would use them “if used against us.”
The use of cluster bombs raises significant humanitarian and ethical concerns, given their potential harm to civilians and the long-term dangers they pose. International reactions to this development have been mixed, with allies divided on the use of such weaponry in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
As the situation continues to evolve, the global community closely watches the implications of this decision and its impact on the civilian population in the region. International pressure may intensify on both parties to exercise restraint and seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
