Lithuania exits cluster bomb treaty amid Russian tensions
Lithuania has officially withdrawn from the international convention banning cluster bombs. This decision is in response to Russia's actions involving using this type of weapon.
The Lithuanian Parliament resolved to withdraw from the convention as early as July last year. At the beginning of autumn, Lithuania submitted the necessary documents to the UN, which initiated the withdrawal six months after the decision became legally binding. This period ended on Thursday, March 6.
Cluster bombs are containers that can be launched from the air or the ground. They contain several dozen to several hundred more minor explosive charges that scatter over a large area comparable to a football pitch.
Lithuania decided to leave the convention, arguing that Russia uses this weapon, and all measures are necessary to deter a potential aggressor.
Controversies surrounding cluster bombs
Critics of the use of cluster bombs in armed conflicts emphasise that they are difficult to control and pose a disproportionate threat to civilian populations. However, Lithuanian authorities assure that they will minimise the potential negative effects of this weapon. Plans are in place to implement an algorithm that mandates the rapid collection of unexploded ordnance following each potential military operation.
Lithuania is also considering withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention, which bans using anti-personnel mines. A decision on this matter is expected within a few months.
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