Rishi Sunak, has stated that the UK will not provide cluster munitions to Ukraine, in contrast to the controversial decision made by the Biden administration. Sunak emphasised that the UK is a signatory to an international convention that discourages the use and production of cluster munitions, unlike the US, Russia, and Ukraine. Instead, the UK plans to urge countries to increase their aid to Kyiv through alternative means.

Sunak reaffirmed the UK's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russia's illegal invasion. The UK has already provided heavy battle tanks and long-range weapons to aid Ukraine's defence. Sunak further condemned Russia's actions, acknowledging the immense suffering caused to millions of people.

During his upcoming trip to the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, Sunak plans to discuss with allies how to strengthen support for Ukraine. However, it remains uncertain whether Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will attend in person, as he has been pushing for immediate NATO membership, a step that Biden has not yet endorsed. Instead, NATO members are likely to offer Kyiv security guarantees as a demonstration of their long-term commitment.

The provision of cluster munitions by the US has generated mixed reactions. While Zelenskiy welcomed the assistance as part of a broader security package, human rights groups criticised the move due to the indiscriminate nature of cluster munitions and the potential harm they can cause to civilians, particularly children. Ukraine's defence minister, Oleksii Reznikov, assured that cluster munitions would only be used in areas with a concentration of Russian military forces, with the aim of minimising risks to Ukrainian soldiers and avoiding civilian casualties.

Biden defended the decision to provide cluster munitions, citing Ukraine's dwindling ammunition supplies and the urgent need to support their defence efforts. He emphasised that Ukraine would use any available weapons to protect their citizens and minimise risks to their people. Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for the aid package, noting that it would enhance Ukraine's defence capabilities and contribute to the de-occupation of their land.

Overall, the provision of cluster munitions remains a contentious issue, with the UK opting not to follow the US example. The focus now shifts to finding alternative ways to support Ukraine's defence efforts and work towards a peaceful resolution.