Investing.com - As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the nation has confirmed receipt of cluster bombs from the United States. These munitions are prohibited in over a hundred nations due to their indiscriminate impact and long-term risks. However, Ukrainian officials have assured that these weapons will be used strictly for dislodging enemy troops.
The southern military district's spokesperson, Valeryi Shershen, revealed last week that these controversial weapons had been included as part of an $800-million security package from the United States. The Pentagon echoed this announcement shortly after.
Russia has expressed strong disapproval of this development. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu warned Russia might consider deploying similar weaponry if provoked by their use.
Ukrainian authorities argue that such drastic measures are necessary given Russia's extensive mining of lands under its control. They believe this move will significantly shift momentum towards their favor during battles against Russian forces occupying key areas like Bakhmut city and several southeastern villages.
Shershen noted that they plan on using these weapons within legal boundaries exclusively for liberating occupied territories without causing harm on Russian soil.
Cluster munitions pose a unique threat as they release numerous smaller bomblets capable of killing indiscriminately across large spaces. Unexploded ones can turn into potential hazards lasting decades, making them highly contentious globally.
Accusations regarding the usage of such bombs have been exchanged between both sides since Russia initiated hostilities back in February 2022. Human Rights Watch reported instances where both Moscow and Kyiv allegedly employed cluster munitions despite international conventions discouraging their production and use is widely supported worldwide - though neither party nor the U.S., has officially signed onto it yet.
This decision hasn't gone unnoticed internationally; countries like Spain and Canada voicing opposition while some American Democratic legislators also raised concerns about possible misuse or escalation resulting from introducing such weaponry into an already volatile situation.
Despite criticism, Oleskander Musiyenko, a Ukrainian military analyst believes deployment in Southern regions could potentially break down enemy fortifications effectively thereby enhancing the capabilities of Ukrainian troops overall.
Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar acknowledged the progress made by Ukrainian forces, especially around Bakhmut city - reinforcing the belief among officials that the strategic application of new resources could potentially change tides in their favor amidst ongoing battle scenarios.