US President Joe Biden has arrived in the UK ahead of an upcoming NATO summit in Lithuania. This summit follows concerns expressed by several allies regarding Biden’s decision to send cluster bombs to Ukraine.

Countries like the UK and Canada have voiced their apprehension about supplying cluster bombs due to the risks they pose to civilians. The US argues that these bombs are necessary as Ukraine’s weapon stocks are depleting, the BBC reported.

During his visit, President Biden will meet with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Monday. The discussions between the two leaders are expected to cover a range of topics, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

While Prime Minister Sunak has not directly criticized President Biden in response to the cluster bomb announcement, he stated on Saturday that the UK is a signatory to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, an international treaty that prohibits the production or use of these weapons.

Other US allies, however, have expressed stronger objections. New Zealand, a partner nation of NATO, stated on Sunday that the use of cluster munitions could cause significant harm to innocent civilians.

Cluster bombs typically release multiple smaller explosive devices, causing indiscriminate casualties over a wide area. Unexploded bomblets can remain on the ground for years, posing a threat even after conflicts end.

The US has indicated that it has received written assurances from Kyiv that Ukrainian forces will not use these weapons in Russia or urban areas.

During his time in the UK, President Biden will also have a meeting with King Charles, marking their first encounter since the King’s coronation.

Written by staff