Putin Threatens to Use Cluster Bombs If Russia Is Targeted
Vladimir Putin has revealed that Russia holds a “sufficient stockpile” of cluster bombs and reserved the right to unleash them if similar weapons are used against Russian forces in Ukraine. Though he admitted cluster bombs are a “crime,” Putin warned Russia would strike back in kind if provoked.
Ukraine Gets Cluster Bombs from the US Amid Shell Shortages
This bold statement came shortly after Ukraine confirmed it received cluster munitions from the United States—its biggest military supporter. Washington claims these deadly weapons are needed to plug shell shortages disrupting Ukraine’s counter-offensive. Cluster bombs scatter dozens of smaller bomblets and are banned by over 100 countries because they kill indiscriminately and leave unexploded ordnance, endangering civilians, especially children.
Putin Upholds a ‘Tit-for-Tat’ Approach on Cluster Munitions
Ukraine insists it will only deploy cluster bombs inside its own territory to flush out enemy troops and pledged not to use them on Russian soil. Still, Putin reacted sharply, confirming Russia’s stockpile but saying the bombs haven’t been fired yet. “If cluster munitions are used against Russian forces, we reserve the right to respond,” he declared.
Human Rights Watch Flags Both Sides for Cluster Bomb Use
Both Moscow and Kyiv face accusations from Human Rights Watch for using cluster munitions. None of the big players—Russia, Ukraine, or the US—have signed the anti-cluster bomb Convention, which bans the manufacture, stockpiling, and use of these horrific weapons.
Putin Opens Door to Examining UK-Supplied Storm Shadow Missiles
Putin also revealed Russian experts are analysing captured Western gear—including Britain’s Storm Shadow missiles sent to Ukraine—to scavenge technologies that might boost Russia’s own military arsenal. He raised no objections to studying these British weapons.
The escalating cluster bomb debate highlights the brutal reality of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The looming threat of these munitions and back-and-forth accusations threaten countless civilian lives, turning the spotlight back on urgent calls for global disarmament and protection of innocent people caught in the crossfire.
