President Joe Biden has authorized the transfer of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine to strengthen the country's defense against Russian attacks, Reuters and The Washington Post report. The newspaper adds that these are “non-durable” mines that self-destruct or lose their battery charge, which reduces the threat to civilians.
In opinion Pentagon sending the mines represents one of the most helpful steps the Biden administration can take to help slow the attacks Russia – says the newspaper.
The daily, citing its sources, reported that the American president's decision was criticized by arms control groups. In their opinion, sending such faces to… Ukraine is potentially controversial. More than 160 countries have signed an international treaty banning their use because they may pose a threat to civilians.
See also: Several hundred potential targets in Russia. This is the range of Ukrainian ATACMS missiles
“Undurable” anti-personnel mines
The Washington Post noted that Kiev has been seeking the mines since Russia began its invasion almost three years ago. He pledged not to use them in densely populated areas. The daily explained that this type of anti-personnel mine is “not durable.” They self-destruct or lose battery charge, causing them to become inactive within a few days or weeks. This reduces the risk to civilians.
Already before United States provided Ukraine with another type of anti-personnel mines, the so-called Claymores. They are deployed above the ground and fired by the operator. If used correctly, the Mine Ban Convention allows it.
Moscow placed anti-personnel mines on the front lines. This hinders Ukraine's progress in regaining its own territory, emphasizes “The Washington Post”.
Range of Ukrainian missiles
Biden has authorized the use of U.S. missiles for attacks deep inside Russia
On Sunday, the media reported that the president Joe Biden has allowed Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike targets inside Russia. This consent applies, among others, to: American ATACMS missiles already possessed by Ukraine, with a range of approximately 300 kilometers.
Kiev has long sought approval to use American weapons to shoot at targets in Russia. Its release now by the US was to be influenced Moscow's deployment of North Korean ground troops on the frontwhich are to support the Russian army in the fighting in the Kursk Oblast.
Main photo source: General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces/Facebook