Ukraine comments on cluster munitions supply

The spokesman for the Eastern Group of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Serhiy Cherevatyi, made the statement on the United News telethon.

"Russians are constantly using cluster munitions. It has become a practice for them. Starting from the war against Ichkeria, in Syria, from the beginning of the "hybrid war" in 2014 and then the full-scale invasion in 2022," Cherevatyi said.

He also emphasized that the Russian army has been constantly using cluster munitions, and the current war is no exception.

"First of all, they use them from such MLRS as Smerch and Uragan. They hit our positions and peaceful cities with cluster munitions. Therefore, there comes a time of reckoning. Thanks to our partners, we will be able to adequately respond to them," he said.

Supply of cluster munitions to 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 as cluster munitions are banned by a 2008 international treaty.

Later, four members of the US Congress from the Republican Party called on the US President to send cluster munitions to Ukraine.

On June 30, media reported that the administration of US President Joe Biden is seriously considering the possibility of sending Ukraine cluster munitions, the use of which is controversial.

On July 6, Human Rights Watch called on the administration of US President Joe Biden not to provide Ukraine with cluster munitions, warning of the danger to civilians.

On July 7, the UN Human Rights Office in Geneva responded to reports that the United States may provide cluster munitions to Ukraine by opposing such supplies.

On July 7, the United States announced the transfer of cluster munitions to Ukraine.