In recent developments, Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia possesses a significant stockpile of cluster bombs and warned of potential retaliatory action if Ukraine were to use these weapons against Russian troops. The Pentagon has confirmed that the United States has delivered cluster munitions to Ukraine, despite them being banned by over 110 countries worldwide.
Ukraine claims that it requires these explosive shells to address ammunition shortages as it mounts a counteroffensive against Russia's invasion. Ukrainian officials assert that cluster bombs would only be utilized on their own territory to dislodge Russian soldiers from occupied areas. However, it is important to note that cluster bombs can pose a risk to civilians, as they release submunitions in the air, making them more effective against enemy troops.
During an interview with Russian state TV, Putin stated that Russia has not yet used cluster bombs but reserved the right to take reciprocal action if they were used against Russian forces. He also condemned the use of cluster bombs, considering it a crime.
Nevertheless, there is substantial evidence indicating that Moscow has employed cluster bombs in its conflict with Ukraine. Human Rights Watch reported in May that since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russian armed forces have used cluster munitions, resulting in numerous civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure such as homes, hospitals, and schools.
It is worth mentioning that neither Russia, Ukraine, nor the United States has ratified the international convention on banning cluster bombs.
This situation raises concerns about the potential consequences of deploying cluster bombs in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The use of these weapons not only poses a threat to enemy combatants but also endangers innocent civilians and damages critical infrastructure. As tensions continue to rise, it remains to be seen whether diplomatic efforts can de-escalate the situation and prevent further harm.