Controversial cluster munitions used by Ukraine: a danger for civilians
In the context of armed conflict in Ukraine, the use of cluster munitions supplied by the United States raises serious concerns. Indeed, these weapons are potentially dangerous for civilians and are banned in many European countries, but not in Ukraine or Russia.
According to White House statements, Ukraine has begun to deploy these weapons in its counteroffensive against Russian forces. US President Joe Biden himself described the decision to deliver these weapons to Ukraine as “very difficult”, justifying this action by the lack of ammunition from which kyiv would suffer.
Cluster munitions are devices that disperse several hundred small explosive charges over a given area. The problem is that these submunitions can remain unexploded in the ground, creating a risk for civilians after the conflict is over.
It is important to emphasize that these cluster munitions are banned by many countries that have signed an international convention, particularly in Europe. However, neither Russia, nor the United States, nor Ukraine have acceded to this convention.
This controversial use of cluster munitions by Ukraine has been criticized by Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that if kyiv uses this type of weaponry, Russia would not hesitate to use them on the front lines as well.
It should be noted that Ukrainian soldiers have already accused Russian forces of using this controversial ammunition since the beginning of the conflict.
Moreover, in the context of tensions in the Black Sea, Ukraine has warned that it will treat any ship heading for ports controlled by Moscow as a potential carrier of military equipment. This statement follows the Russian strikes on the Ukrainian ports of Mykolaiv and Odessa, condemned by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.
These recent events in Ukraine show the escalation of the conflict and the complexity of the situation. It is essential to find diplomatic solutions to end hostilities and protect the civilian population from the dangers associated with the use of these controversial weapons. The involvement of the international community and bodies such as the UN is essential to achieve a peaceful resolution to this conflict