Thu Mar 06 07:50:32 UTC 2025: ## Lithuania Defies Critics, Withdraws from Cluster Bomb Ban
**Vilnius, Lithuania** – Lithuania has become the first country to withdraw from the Convention on Cluster Munitions, citing security concerns stemming from the ongoing war in Ukraine and the perceived threat from neighboring Russia. The decision, announced Thursday, March 6th, 2025, has drawn sharp condemnation from human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, who warn of increased civilian casualties.
The Baltic nation, a member of NATO, argues that the withdrawal is necessary to bolster its defenses against potential Russian aggression. Deputy Defence Minister Karolis Aleksa stated that possessing cluster munitions enhances deterrence and provides a more effective response to large-scale attacks. He also emphasized Lithuania’s commitment to minimizing civilian harm through swift removal of unexploded ordnance.
The Convention, adopted in 2008, prohibits the production, stockpiling, transfer, and use of cluster munitions, which scatter bomblets over a wide area, many of which fail to detonate immediately, posing a long-term threat. Despite the criticism, Lithuania maintains that the move is crucial for national security.
The decision follows a parliamentary vote last July and a six-month waiting period required by the United Nations. Lithuania is also considering withdrawing from the Anti-Personnel Landmines Convention, a move that has yet to receive final approval. This action is being met with concern internationally, potentially setting a concerning precedent for other nations to reconsider their commitments to humanitarian disarmament treaties.
First Piper 