Biden approves cluster munitions for Ukraine over allied objections US not a signatory to ban treaty

The Biden administration approves sending cluster munitions, specifically 155mm Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions (DPICMs), to Ukraine, reversing previous refusals. The decision draws immediate criticism from the UK, Spain, Germany, and New Zealand, which are signatories to the Convention on Cluster Munitions banning their use. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan defends the decision, arguing Ukraine faces an ammunition shortage and that Russia has already used cluster munitions extensively. The U.S. is not a signatory to the convention. Critics warn unexploded bomblets will kill Ukrainian civilians for decades after the war.