US to send depleted uranium shells to Ukraine.
The Biden administration is taking decisive action to support Ukraine in its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression. As part of a $175 million military equipment package, the Department of Defense announced on Sept. 6 that depleted uranium rounds will be sent to Ukraine. These rounds will be used in the Abrams tanks previously provided by the United States.
This move has sparked controversy, as depleted uranium is a highly dense metal used in armored vehicle plating and armor-piercing munitions. While it is expected to enhance Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian tanks, there are concerns about the potential spread of radiation-related illnesses and environmental damage caused by discarded uranium shells.
Despite the controversy, Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine during a meeting with Ukrainian leadership in Kyiv. He stated that the goal is to provide Ukraine with the necessary resources to succeed in the counteroffensive and prevent future aggressions.
Depleted Uranium: A Controversial Boon to Ukraine
Depleted uranium is a slightly radioactive material produced as a byproduct of uranium enrichment for nuclear weapons. Its exceptional density makes it ideal for armor and armor-piercing purposes. However, concerns about the health effects and environmental impact of depleted uranium have led to international controversy.
While the United Nations General Assembly has conducted reviews on the adverse health effects of depleted uranium, subsequent studies have found no substantial evidence linking the munitions to serious poisoning. The United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation has also concluded that there is no clinically significant radiation pathology associated with the use of such munitions.
In March, the United Kingdom announced its own shipment of depleted uranium tank rounds to Ukraine. This aligns with the United States’ shipment, which provides rounds for the Abrams tanks, and the UK’s shipment, which corresponds to the British-provided Challenger tank.
Russia Vows Escalation, Invokes ‘Nuclear Armageddon’
Russia responded to the UK’s announcement by making threats and falsely claiming that the rounds contained a “nuclear component.” Anatoly Antonov, Russia’s ambassador to the United States, warned of depleted uranium shells to Ukraine.”>highly toxic radioactive dust settling from the use of depleted uranium shells.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
