**Delayed Cluster Munitions Explode in Kyiv, Injuring One Woman**
On May 1, a series of explosions shook the forest park area in Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital city. The blasts were caused by delayed cluster munitions that exploded after an overnight Russian drone attack on the city. According to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, one woman was injured in the incident.
The explosions were likely triggered by cluster munitions dropped by Russian drones, although confirmation will depend on the results of an expert examination. The Kyiv City Military Administration head, Tymur Tkachenko, reported that “about 10 explosions” were recorded near the park, with another blast damaging the roof of a residential building.
**Russia’s Drone Attack**
The overnight attack on Ukraine saw Russia launch 170 drones, including Iranian-designed Shahed-type drones. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that their defenses intercepted 74 drones, while 68 disappeared from radar, likely used as decoys to overwhelm air defense systems. The attack was countered using a mix of electronic warfare units, anti-aircraft missile systems, aviation, and mobile fire groups.
**The Dangers of Cluster Munitions**
Cluster munitions are a type of explosive that disperse multiple submunitions over wide areas, posing severe risks to civilians both during and long after attacks. Their use in populated zones can constitute a war crime under international humanitarian law. Last month, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine warned of Russian drones dropping explosive objects, saying the “risk is extremely high also because the time of explosion of such munitions is unknown.”
**Response and Investigation**
Sappers, emergency responders, and medics are working at the site, while police units are securing the area to prevent civilian access. An investigation into the incident will likely follow, with a focus on determining whether the cluster munitions were used in compliance with international humanitarian law.
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