The Biden administration is preparing to supply the Ukrainian military with depleted uranium tank rounds, The Wall Street Journal reports. The controversial move represents a dangerous escalation of America’s undeclared proxy war in Ukraine.
Those rounds will be used to equip US tanks being supplied to Ukraine, signaling an escalation in the administration’s support for the country. The decision to supply depleted uranium tank rounds comes after extensive internal deliberations within the administration on how best to equip the Abrams tanks.
According to the report, there are no significant obstacles preventing the delivery of these rounds to Ukrainian forces. Depleted uranium rounds are known for their effectiveness against Russian armor and tanks, with experts describing them as hitting “like a freight train” due to their high density and kinetic energy. The Pentagon has recommended the use of these rounds, citing their regular use by the US military and their ability to penetrate the frontal armor of Russian tanks from afar.
Although some White House officials have expressed concerns about the potential health and environmental risks associated with depleted uranium rounds, the proposal has gained traction and is highly likely to pass. The ongoing Ukrainian counter-offensive has further emphasized the need for solid support to enable Ukraine to retake territory from Russian forces.
The decision to provide depleted uranium rounds comes in the context of broader discussions about support for Ukrainian forces. The United States has been urged to provide cluster munitions, but there is disagreement within the Biden administration over that request. Political support for Ukraine on Capitol Hill remains strong, but some lawmakers suggest a failure of the Ukrainian counteroffensive could weaken that support, calling for greater support from the White House.
The ammunition issue dates back to January, when the White House agreed to supply Ukraine with Abrams tanks. To expedite delivery, existing M1A1 tanks in the US inventory will be refurbished and delivered to Ukraine. The question of arming these tanks arose, with Britain already delivering Challenger tanks and depleted uranium armor-piercing shells to Ukraine. Depleted uranium, while not causing a nuclear reaction, has been the subject of controversy, with Russia accusing Britain of proliferating “weapons with a nuclear component”. The US had not previously provided Ukraine with depleted uranium rounds, but recent deliberations suggest a change in that position.
While the decision to supply other weapons, such as cluster munitions, is still under consideration, depleted uranium rounds are expected to be sent. The administration’s goal is to strengthen Ukraine’s position on the battlefield, increasing its influence in potential peace talks. However, concerns remain over the use of cluster munitions due to the risk of civilian casualties from unexploded ordnance. The Ukrainians also continue to request US-made long-range missiles, but a decision on that issue is not imminent.
Experts stress the importance of providing the necessary tools for Ukraine’s tank warfare capabilities. Although tank-on-tank battles have not been widespread in the conflict, it is crucial that Ukraine has an advantage if such engagements occur. The supply of depleted uranium rounds is intended to support Ukraine in this regard.
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