Will US cluster munitions pose risks to civilians in Ukraine?

President Joe Biden has approved the transfer of cluster munitions to Ukraine, despite its previous condemnation of Russia's use of such weapons as "war crimes". The decision comes as Ukraine continues its counteroffensive against Russian forces. In an interview with CNN's Fareed Zakaria, Biden stated that it was a "difficult decision" but necessary due to the dwindling ammunition supplies of Ukrainian forces. The cluster munitions will be compatible with US-provided 155mm howitzers, enabling Ukraine to regain territory. However, concerns have been raised about the potential risks they pose to civilians. Pentagon statements reveal that the cluster munitions may contain older grenades with a failure rate of 14 percent or more. The grenades can remain unexploded for years, posing a danger to both adults and children. While the Pentagon claims that the weapons being sent to Ukraine have a failure rate of 2.35 percent or less, experts warn that significant risks remain. Retired Army colonel Al Vosburgh emphasizes the need for extensive education campaigns to warn civilians of the dangers of unexploded grenades in the aftermath of the conflict.

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