- July 8, 2023
- Posted by: legaleseblogger
- Category: Related News
The United States’ decision to send cluster munitions to Ukraine in an effort to counter Russian forces has sparked both controversy and concern. The Pentagon, in an announcement made on Friday, confirmed that it would be providing thousands of these highly debated bombs to aid Ukraine’s military.
Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, took the opportunity to explain the rationale behind this decision. He acknowledged the inherent risk of civilian harm associated with cluster munitions due to the presence of unexploded ordnance. However, he emphasized the even greater risk posed by Russian troops and tanks advancing on Ukrainian positions, potentially capturing more territory and subjecting more Ukrainian civilians to subjugation. Sullivan argued that Ukraine’s insufficient artillery capabilities necessitated this military assistance.
While concerns surrounding the use of cluster munitions persist, the urgency of the situation prompted the United States to act. Unnamed sources revealed that the military aid package is valued at a staggering $800 million, indicating the magnitude of support being extended to Ukraine.
The introduction of cluster munitions in this volatile conflict raises questions about the potential consequences for civilian populations. However, it is crucial to consider the broader context and the need to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression. By providing Ukraine with enhanced artillery capabilities, the hope is that they will be better equipped to withstand and repel Russian forces.
As this development unfolds, it becomes increasingly important to closely monitor the situation. The implications of this decision extend beyond immediate military aid; they have geopolitical and humanitarian ramifications. ABC News remains committed to keeping the public informed and providing up-to-the-minute coverage of this significant event and others, both within Australia and around the world.
For more comprehensive news coverage, including the latest updates on the coronavirus pandemic, visit the ABC News website. Stay informed with news that matters to you, delivered when you want it, by relying on Australia’s most trusted news organization.
To access ad-free content from ABC News, you can watch on ABC iview. Additionally, if you crave in-depth analysis and reporting, delve into the ABC News In-depth channel for a deeper understanding of current affairs.
Connect with us on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to engage with our journalists and join the conversation.
Please note that the captions accompanying our content are auto-generated in most cases, ensuring accessibility but potentially introducing inaccuracies.
Stay informed with ABC News, your reliable source for comprehensive coverage.
Well after months of careful deliberation, the United States has made the decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine. This move comes as a response to the need to counter Russian forces along the front lines. These controversial weapons are intended to neutralize tanks, equipment, and troops simultaneously, as they break apart in the air to release smaller bombs across a wide area. Despite concerns about the potential risks to civilians, U.S officials argue that Ukraine has assured them of responsible use.
It is important to note that more than 120 nations, including Australia, have joined a convention banning the use of cluster bombs. The United Nations Chief strongly opposes the usage of such weapons and urges countries to abide by the terms of the convention. The concern lies in the fact that many of the smaller bombs released by cluster munitions fail to detonate immediately, posing a long-term risk to civilians even years or decades after they are fired.
The latest drawdown of U.S assistance for Ukraine includes the provision of cluster munitions. This decision comes after Ukraine’s request, despite initial hesitancy from the White House due to the potential danger to civilians. However, Ukraine is rapidly depleting its stockpiles of conventional artillery in its ongoing counter-offensive against Russia. Hence, the U.S aims to bridge this shortage until it can ensure an adequate supply of ammunition to meet Ukraine’s needs.
President Biden’s National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, shed some light on the decision-making process and the considerations given to potential harm to civilians. After thorough examination, the unanimous recommendation from the National Security team led President Biden, in consultation with allies, partners, and members of Congress, to move forward with the provision of cluster munitions.
When asked about this controversial decision, President Biden directly addressed the ammunition shortage faced by Ukraine as the driving factor. The urgency to address this issue is evident in the decision made.
The controversy surrounding cluster munitions arises primarily from their indiscriminate nature. These bombs have the capability to hit multiple targets simultaneously, but this also increases the risk to civilians. Additionally, there is historical concern regarding their failure rate, as the smaller bomblets dispersed by these bombs often do not explode immediately or hit their intended targets. This raises the possibility of delayed detonations, further increasing the risk to civilians.
The White House acknowledges that Russia has already been using these weapons in Ukraine, which has resulted in a significant amount of territory needing to be demined once the conflict ends. However, the U.S assures that the cluster munitions it provides to Ukraine will have a much lower failure rate compared to the ones used by Russia. While Russia’s failure rate is estimated to be between 30 and 40 percent, the munitions from the U.S will have a failure rate of 2.5 percent. Written assurances from Ukraine regarding the careful and responsible use of these weapons have also been received.
In conclusion, the decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine has been driven by the urgent need to address the ammunition shortage and counter the Russian forces. Although controversial due to the potential risks they pose to civilians, efforts are being made to minimize those risks. The provision of cluster munitions is seen as a temporary solution until a more sustainable supply of ammunition can be ensured.
****** just grabbed a