Lithuania Withdraws from Cluster Munitions Treaty
- Lithuania's parliament voted to leave an international treaty against cluster munitions.
- The move was explained as a security measure by the NATO member.
- Campaigners criticized the decision as detrimental to anti-cluster munition efforts.
On July 18, Lithuania's parliament voted to withdraw from the Oslo Convention, an international treaty prohibiting the use of cluster munitions. This decision, which awaits the president's approval, has sparked criticism from campaigners advocating for human rights and civilian protection. The Deputy Defence Minister, who introduced the legislation, cited significant changes in the security landscape since Lithuania ratified the treaty in 2011, particularly referencing Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. Deputy Defence Minister Pleskys emphasized the challenges of replacing cluster munitions in modern warfare, arguing that their use is essential for effective defense against large-scale attacks. He noted that the ability to use cluster munitions could reduce the quantity of munitions needed to achieve military objectives. Furthermore, he pointed out that adherence to the convention has hindered NATO allies' training in Lithuania, as many of them utilize cluster munitions. Lithuania's Defence Minister Laurynas Kasciunas echoed these sentiments, stating that it is unwise to remain bound by a treaty that is not respected by significant geopolitical adversaries like Russia. He described the decision as a correction of a previous mistake, asserting that cluster munitions are effective in combat and can help address ammunition shortages. In response, organizations such as Handicap International and the International Committee of the Red Cross condemned Lithuania's withdrawal, labeling it a major setback for human rights and a concerning precedent in international arms control. The Cluster Munition Coalition also criticized the decision, warning of its potential long-term consequences.