Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov praised the U.S. decision to send cluster bombs to Ukraine, stating that these bombs will only be used for 'liberating Ukrainian territory' and assured that they 'will not be used in Russia.' According to Reuters, the U.S. has announced its intention to supply cluster bombs to Ukraine for use in counteroffensive operations against Russian forces in occupied areas, despite over 100 countries banning the use of such bombs. Reznikov emphasized that Ukraine will closely monitor the use of these bombs and share information with its partners as the counteroffensive continues in the southern and eastern fronts. He added that the 'goal' is to reclaim internationally recognized Ukrainian territories and protect the lives of Ukrainians. In response, Grigory Karasin, head of the International Committee in the Federation Council, the upper house of Russia's parliament, expressed 'serious concerns' regarding Washington's decision, stating that Moscow 'will certainly respond to this issue.' Previously, images of cluster bombs used by Russian forces in Ukraine had been released. While Russia criticized the U.S. decision and described it as part of America's 'anti-Russian' stance, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlighted the risk of civilian casualties in Ukraine if Russian forces advance further, explaining the rationale for sending cluster bombs. Additionally, Reznikov reiterated that cluster bombs would not be used in urban areas and would only be employed to break through enemy defensive lines. Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. have not signed the convention on cluster bombs. Meanwhile, Spain and the UK, signatories of the convention banning the use of cluster bombs, have expressed their opposition to this decision. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on the 500th day of Russia's military invasion of Ukraine, expressed gratitude to Ukrainian soldiers during a speech on Snake Island in the Black Sea, stating, 'Soldiers, armed forces and intelligence, National Guard, border guards, Security Service of Ukraine, national police, officers, and the people, I thank you! I am grateful to all who fight for Ukraine; we will definitely win.'
Ukraine: Cluster Bombs Will Not Be Used in Russia
Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov announced that the U.S. will supply cluster bombs to Ukraine for use in its counteroffensive against Russian forces, assuring that they will not be used in Russia. This decision has raised serious concerns in Russia, with officials indicating a potential response. The situation highlights the ongoing military tensions and the international debate surrounding the use of cluster munitions.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The U.S. announced it will supply cluster bombs to Ukraine for its counteroffensive against Russian forces, with assurances from Ukraine that these bombs will not be used in Russia. This decision has sparked serious concerns from Russian officials.
- Over 100 countries have banned the use of cluster bombs.
- Ukraine has committed to monitoring the use of these bombs closely.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Cluster bombs are controversial munitions that can cause widespread civilian casualties and are banned by many countries. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has drawn significant international attention and military support.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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