Ukraine Effectively Uses Cluster Munitions, Says White House

The White House has confirmed that Ukraine is already using American-made cluster munitions against Russian forces. John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesman, stated that initial feedback suggests these munitions are being used "effectively" against Russian defensive positions, according to BBC.

"They are using them properly and effectively. They are actually having an impact on Russian defensive formations and Russian defensive maneuvers," Kirby said.

The decision to send cluster munitions was made after Ukraine warned that its ammunition supplies were running low. President Joe Biden described the decision as "very difficult," while allies such as the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Spain expressed opposition to their use.

The vast majority of the sent munitions are artillery shells that do not explode immediately and can remain a threat for years. These weapons are effective when used against troops in trenches and fortified positions.

Cluster munitions disperse multiple explosives and are banned by more than 100 countries due to the threat they pose to civilian populations. Ukraine has promised that the munitions will only be used to disperse enemy troop concentrations.