US to Send ‘Cluster Bombs’ to Ukraine, with Conditions

The United States to Provide Cluster Munitions to Ukraine in Fight Against Russian Forces

The United States has made a significant decision to support Ukraine in its ongoing battle against Russian forces. In a statement from the White House on July 7, national security adviser Jake Sullivan revealed that President Joe Biden had carefully considered the situation before signing the order to provide Ukrainian forces with the requested weapons.

Speaking about the decision, Sullivan emphasized, “We continue to stand with the people of Ukraine as they defend their sovereignty, their freedom, and their democracy.”

Cluster Munitions: A Controversial Choice

Cluster munitions, which open in midair and release small bombs over a wide area to strike multiple targets simultaneously, have long been a topic of debate. Human Rights Watch and other humanitarian organizations oppose these devices due to the risk of unexploded bomblets, which pose a significant threat to civilians, especially children.

According to Sullivan, Russian forces have dispersed “tens of millions” of these bomblets in their attempt to take over Ukraine, with a dud rate of 30 to 40 percent. However, Colin Kahl, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, assured that the U.S. munitions have a much lower dud rate of 2.5 percent.

Despite the controversy surrounding cluster munitions, Sullivan emphasized that the decision was made to allow Ukrainians to defend their land with whatever means necessary.

International Response and the Convention on Cluster Munitions

While more than 100 countries, including several NATO members, are part of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), both the United States and Russia are not party to this agreement. Sullivan acknowledged that some countries, such as Germany, have expressed concern but have not explicitly condemned the transfer of cluster munitions to Ukraine.

It is important to note that the CCM prohibits the use, production, transfer, and stockpiling of cluster munitions.

Sullivan warned that the danger to Ukrainian civilians will escalate if no action is taken. The decision to provide cluster munitions aims to address this growing threat.