MOSCOW: Russia’s foreign ministry criticized the United States’ decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, describing it as an “act of desperation” that will have no impact on Moscow’s ongoing campaign in Ukraine.
Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova issued a statement on Saturday, emphasizing that the move demonstrated weakness following the perceived failure of the Ukrainian counteroffensive.
Zakharova referred to the cluster munitions as the latest “miracle weapon” on which Washington and Kyiv are relying, but she dismissed its potential to affect Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine. She highlighted the decision as evidence of the US’ aggressive and anti-Russian stance, aimed at prolonging the conflict in Ukraine.
The Russian foreign ministry spokesperson further disregarded Ukraine’s promises to use the controversial ammunition responsibly, asserting that they hold no value. Notably, Russia itself has been known to utilize cluster bombs in Ukraine, despite their prohibition in many parts of the world.
US to Supply Cluster Bombs to Ukraine
The US decision to supply cluster munitions to Ukraine has drawn strong criticism from humanitarian groups due to the inherent dangers they pose, including the potential for unexploded bomblets to endanger civilians for years to come. US President Joe Biden acknowledged the difficulty in providing weapons capable of dispersing numerous small explosives over a wide area, covering several football fields.
The supply of cluster munitions by the United States to Ukraine has further heightened tensions between the two countries. Russia continues to assert its dominance in the region, while the conflict in Ukraine persists, causing immense human suffering and geopolitical instability.
