The Biden administration is facing scrutiny after announcing its decision to send controversial cluster bombs to Ukraine in support of their counteroffensive against Russia. President Biden himself admitted that approving the transfer of cluster munitions was a “very difficult decision” during an interview with Fareed Zakaria on CNN. He explained that the decision was made after consulting with members of Congress and allied nations, and ultimately, the urgency of Ukraine’s ammunition shortage influenced his choice.
National security adviser Jake Sullivan echoed Biden’s remarks, emphasizing the careful considerations that were taken before settling on the decision to send cluster bombs. The White House spent a significant amount of time deliberating the move, as reported by the Washington Post. The President mentioned that the Pentagon recommended using cluster bombs as a temporary solution during a transition period, while the US increases production of the 155mm artillery it has been providing to Ukraine. Although cluster bombs can target multiple military objectives simultaneously, they have been a source of controversy due to their “dud” rate, meaning unexploded bombs that pose a long-term threat to civilians.
Sullivan assured that the cluster bombs being sent to Ukraine have undergone thorough testing to ensure that the dud rate is below 2.35%. He added that Ukraine has provided assurances that they will use these munitions in a way that minimizes the risk to civilians. However, it is worth noting that most NATO member nations, excluding the US, have signed an international convention prohibiting the production, use, or transfer of cluster munitions. Margarita Robles, Spain’s defense minister, expressed her opposition to cluster bombs while advocating for the legitimate defense of Ukraine. Interestingly, even the US has a ban on using cluster bombs with a dud rate exceeding 1%, a ban that President Biden bypassed by invoking the Foreign Assistance Act.
Politico reported that prominent Democratic lawmakers in the US, including Rep. Betty McCollum, have voiced their opposition to the Biden administration’s decision. Rep. McCollum branded the move as an “unnecessary and … terrible mistake,” suggesting that these weapons should be eliminated rather than sent to Ukraine. On the other hand, GOP lawmakers such as Rep. Michael McCaul, Sen. Roger Wicker, and Sen. James Risch support the decision, considering it a necessary step to fill a crucial gap in Ukraine’s military capabilities.
In conclusion, the Biden administration’s decision to send cluster bombs to Ukraine has sparked debate and garnered both criticism and support from lawmakers. The controversy surrounding cluster munitions and their potential impact on civilians persists, but the administration maintains that they have made informed decisions and taken steps to minimize risks.
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