UN Criticizes Use of Cluster Munitions in Sevastopol Attack

The United Nations has criticized the use of cluster munitions in residential areas, emphasizing that such actions are incompatible with fundamental principles of international law governing armed conflicts. This was stated by Elisabeth Trosel, a spokesperson for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in response to Ukrainian forces' attacks on Sevastopol on June 23.

Trosel noted that, while the use of cluster munitions is not outright banned under international humanitarian law, the UN maintains that using them in populated areas violates core principles of international humanitarian law, particularly the prohibition of indiscriminate attacks. “After the use of such weapons, civilians remain defenseless against explosive remnants of war for years, even decades. Therefore, we call on all states to cease the use of cluster munitions, considering the degree of risk to civilian populations,” she stated.

Trosel urged the Russian Federation and Ukraine to join over 100 countries that have ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which entirely prohibits their use.

It is noteworthy that on June 23, the Armed Forces of Ukraine launched an attack towards Sevastopol. According to the latest reports, the missile strike from the Ukrainian Armed Forces resulted in injuries to 124 people, including 27 children. June 24 has been declared a day of mourning in Sevastopol.

The Russian Ministry of Defense has reported that the strike was carried out using ATACMS missiles supplied by the United States.