Providing Kyiv with cluster munitions would be a temporary measure

The White House National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, indicated that many NATO member states do not agree with the US decision to provide Ukraine withCluster munitionsHowever, this does not lead to a split in the ranks of the alliance.

“Of course, many countries have announced that they would not support such a step because of legal obligations, and my view is that the difference in views about supplying one particular type of ammunition has not had much effect on the historically stable and enduring unity,” Sullivan said in a press briefing on Tuesday. to NATO,” adding that “rumors about” the death of NATO unity “are exaggerated,” according to the Russian “TASS” agency.

He stressed that providing Kiev with cluster munitions would be a temporary measure until the production of conventional munitions is increased and stocks replenished, adding: “A few months ago, we began to seriously increase ammunition production, and once its quantities reach the level required to meet Ukraine’s needs, there will be no need to supply cluster munitions.” “.

In addition, the Russian Foreign Ministry stressed today that Washington’s announcement of increasing military support for Kiev confirms that it is not interested in a political solution.

for the first time

Recall that the United States was announced friday its decision to supply Ukraine Cluster bombs For the first time since the start of the Russian military operation.

The decision, which US President Joe Biden confirmed was “very difficult” to take, came at a time when Kiev forces were struggling to advance on the ground in a counterattack they launched a month ago to recapture Russian-controlled territories in eastern and southern Ukraine.

While Washington confirmed that it had obtained guarantees from Kiev that these weapons, which were banned by several countries, would not be used against civilians.

ban their use

It is noteworthy that the US decision drew criticism from several parties, especially non-governmental organizations.

Dozens of countries ban the use of these munitions under the 2008 Oslo Accords. But many other countries have not ratified them, including the United States, Ukraine, China and Russia.