Russian Defense Minister Shoigu threatens to use cluster bombs
Russia has threatened to use such weapons in the event of cluster munitions shipments from the United States to Ukraine. Russia also has cluster munitions, which are even more effective, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said in Moscow on Tuesday.
His country has so far held back, but would be forced to use “analogue means” in the event of US deliveries. The US had previously announced that it would supply the banned weapons to Ukraine.
Shoigu pointed out that neither the United States, Ukraine, nor Russia have signed the international treaty banning cluster munitions. Their use will prolong the war, said the minister. Russia has been waging a war of aggression against Ukraine since February last year.
The bombs exploding above the ground spread projectiles over larger areas. Because many of them often do not explode immediately, like mines they are considered a danger to civilians even after the end of hostilities.
Germany and 110 other countries have therefore outlawed them with an international agreement.