Lithuanian Parliament Votes to Withdraw from Convention on Cluster Munitions

Lithuania's parliament has voted to withdraw from the Convention on Cluster Munitions, citing security concerns amid tensions with neighboring Russia. The decision aims to bolster the country's defense capabilities. The convention is adhered to by over 100 countries, but not by Russia, Ukraine, or the United States.

Lithuania's parliament voted on Thursday to withdraw from the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which bans the production, stockpiling, use, and transfer of these controversial weapons.

The decision reflects the Baltic nation's concern over its defense capabilities amid growing tensions with Russia, which has not signed the convention. Cluster munitions release numerous smaller bomblets that cause significant destruction over wide areas and are prohibited by over 100 countries.

Among European Union members bordering Russia or Ukraine, Lithuania is the only signatory. However, with 103 out of 141 members in favor, the Lithuanian parliament moved to reinforce its defense strategy. According to Defence Minister Laurynas Kasciunas, the convention lost relevance as Russia did not abide by it. He emphasized that announcing defense capabilities would weaken the country's security stance.

Last year, Ukraine received cluster munitions from the United States, prompting protests from human rights organizations.

(With inputs from agencies.)