2023-07-11 19:10:39
Official Russian media quoted the pro-Moscow authorities in the Ukrainian province of Zaporizhia as saying that the Kiev forces bombed the city of Tokmak in the province with cluster bombs.
According to the media, this is the first Ukrainian use of this type of munition following Kiev received cluster bombs from the United States.
Operational services in the Zaporozhye region said that the Ukrainian army bombed Tokmak, and “according to preliminary information, the enemy used cluster munitions.”
This comes following the United States granted Ukraine cluster munitions, in return for the latter providing “written guarantees” confirming that it will use them to defend its lands, and in a responsible manner that does not endanger civilians.
American division over the decision to provide Ukraine with cluster munitions
It is noteworthy that Zaporizhia includes the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, and is controlled by Russia.
Earlier on Tuesday, Russia escalated its rhetoric, threatening if Ukraine used cluster munitions.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said, “Russia has refrained from using cluster munitions during the special operation, and is refraining from doing so,” recalling at the same time that Russia is “armed with cluster munitions on all occasions.”
He added, “If the United States supplies Ukraine with cluster munitions, the Russian armed forces will be forced to use similar weapons once morest the Ukrainian armed forces.”
And he added, “Western intelligence indicates the high effectiveness of Russian forces’ defense, minefields, and preventive air strikes, and highlights the high flexibility of Russian forces and the quick response of commanders.”
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