Biden Sparks Fury by Arming Ukraine with Controversial Cluster Bombs
Cluster Bomb Controversy: Dangerous Aid or Necessary Defence?
US President Joe Biden has come under fire after approving the supply of cluster bombs to Ukraine. The move is controversial because these weapons are infamous for harming civilians—leaving unexploded munitions that can pose dangers for years. Biden defended his decision as a “very difficult” one, saying, “the Ukrainians are running out of ammunition.”
Global Backlash and Divided Opinions
The US has defied a global ban upheld by 120+ countries by sending cluster bombs. Ukraine’s president welcomed the $800 million aid package as “timely,” while a Moscow envoy slammed Washington’s “cynicism.” Even US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan admitted the risk but claimed these cluster munitions have a lower failure rate than those Russia has used.
Legal Loopholes and Political Fallout
The US has bypassed its own law, which forbids cluster bombs with more than a 1% failure rate. Earlier in the war, the White House labeled Russia’s use of cluster bombs and vacuum bombs as potential “war crimes.” Now, critics—including some US lawmakers—warn of the long-term civilian harm. Supporters argue backing Ukraine with heavy firepower is vital to push back Russian aggression.
Ongoing Conflict and No Immediate Ally Reprimand
The cluster bomb move comes as fighting rages in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk and southeastern Zaporizhzhia regions. Ukraine’s top commander has complained about slow Western arms deliveries, hurting counteroffensive plans. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg sidestepped controversy, saying the alliance has no position on cluster munitions. Notably, the US, Ukraine, and Russia all refuse to sign the Convention on Cluster Munitions, while over 120 nations—including Germany—have.
