Biden administration considers providing Ukraine with cluster munitions

CNN reported the information, citing several informed sources.

"These would undoubtedly have a significant battlefield impact," said a senior official, who requested anonymity.

Officials in Washington said that a White House decision is expected "soon," and if approved, cluster munitions would be included in next month's military aid package.

The US believes that cluster munitions will cover the shortage of artillery ammunition.

"Administration officials also believe they have managed to alleviate some allies' concerns about the US transferring the munitions," the media outlet writes.

Supply of cluster munitions to Ukraine

The 2008 pact, known as the Convention on Cluster Munitions, was adopted by 123 countries, including a majority of the 28 NATO members. However, countries such as the United States, Russia, and Ukraine did not become parties to the convention. It is important to note that Russia is actively using cluster munitions in the war against Ukraine.

In December 2022, Ukraine asked the United States to provide it with cluster munitions for MLRS and artillery shells. At the time, the administration of US President Joe Biden was not ready to fulfill this request and was considering it.

In February 2023, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called on Western allies to provide the country with cluster munitions.

Following Ukraine's initial request to the United States for cluster munitions, there was an expansion of the appeal. Kyiv specifically asked Washington for MK-20 aircraft cluster bombs with the intention of modifying them for use with drones. It was revealed that there was some level of support for Ukraine's request within the US Congress. However, the Biden administration strongly opposed the proposal due to the international treaty banning cluster munitions that was established in 2008.