The United States has announced its intention to supply Ukraine with controversial weapons, including depleted uranium tank shells, as part of a comprehensive military and humanitarian aid package exceeding $1 billion (£800 million). This move has been met with strong condemnation from Russia, who object to the equipping of US Abrams tanks with shells capable of penetrating conventional tank armor.
These tank rounds, composed of depleted uranium, a by-product of uranium enrichment with reduced radioactive material, are intended for M1 Abrams tanks scheduled for delivery to Ukraine later this year.
Depleted uranium is frequently used to reinforce tank armor due to its high density and armor-piercing capabilities upon impact and ignition. However, it is important to note that depleted uranium cannot initiate a nuclear reaction and is considerably less radioactive than natural uranium, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Russia previously expressed displeasure when the UK announced its intention to supply Ukraine with depleted uranium shells for its Challenger 2 tanks in March. The UK Ministry of Defence refuted Russian claims of a “nuclear component” and accused Moscow of spreading misinformation. The UN Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation found no significant poisoning resulting from exposure to depleted uranium, although the International Atomic Energy Agency noted a potential radiation risk for individuals handling depleted uranium round fragments.
This decision by the United States represents a reversal from March when the Pentagon stated it would not provide depleted uranium munitions to Ukraine. According to a Department of Defense official, this shift in policy is based on the belief that these munitions are the most effective way to arm Abrams tanks in Ukraine.
In addition to the depleted uranium tank rounds, the US will supply anti-armor systems, tactical air navigation systems, and additional ammunition for Himars missiles. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Kyiv, described this new assistance as crucial in sustaining and furthering Ukraine’s efforts.
The Russian embassy in Washington has criticized the decision, labeling it “an indicator of inhumanity” and suggesting that the US is in denial about the failure of Ukraine’s military counter-offensive. While Ukraine has made limited territorial gains since June, Ukrainian generals claim to have breached Russia’s formidable first line of defenses in the south.
In a tragic incident, 16 people, including a child, were killed in an attack on the city of Kostyantynivka in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region on Wednesday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attributed the attack to Moscow, although Russia has not yet issued a statement.
