Democratic U.S. Senator Tim Kaine and Representative Barbara Lee expressed their concerns about President Joe Biden’s decision to send cluster bombs to Ukraine in response to the Russian invasion. The United States announced on Friday that it would provide Kyiv with these banned weapons as part of an $800 million security package, bringing total U.S. military aid to over $40 billion since the start of Russia’s invasion in February 2022. However, rights groups and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have questioned the wisdom of this decision.
Senator Kaine voiced his reservations about sending cluster bombs to Ukraine, as it could set a dangerous precedent and encourage other countries to ignore the international convention that bans these munitions. While he appreciates the Biden administration grappling with the risks, he believes that it could potentially give other nations the green light to do the same. However, Kaine clarified that Ukraine would not use these munitions against Russian civilians, as they have provided assurances outlined by the White House.
Cluster munitions are banned by more than 100 countries due to their indiscriminate killing over a wide area and the long-lasting danger they pose even after conflicts end. Representative Lee urged the Biden administration to reconsider this decision, stating that using cluster bombs crosses a line and risks undermining the moral leadership of the United States.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby defended the decision, emphasizing that the United States is mindful of concerns about civilian casualties and unexploded ordnance. He explained that Russia is already using cluster munitions in Ukraine to kill civilians indiscriminately, while the Ukrainians will utilize them for defensive purposes.
Despite the controversy, support for Ukraine has remained bipartisan in the United States. Both the Biden administration and lawmakers from the Democratic and Republican parties argue that sending these controversial weapons is necessary to accelerate Ukraine’s counteroffensive. Republican Representative Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, believes that cluster bombs could be a game changer for the Ukrainians in their counteroffensive.
In conclusion, the decision to send cluster bombs to Ukraine has sparked concerns and debates among politicians and international organizations. While some believe it is necessary to support Ukraine’s defense efforts, others argue that it risks violating international agreements and undermining moral leadership.
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