British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly denied, on Wednesday, the existence of a nuclear escalation in the Ukrainian war, after Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced London’s plan to supply Kiev with ammunition containing depleted uranium.
“There is no nuclear escalation. The only country in the world talking about nuclear issues is Russia. There is no threat to Russia, it’s just about helping Ukraine defend itself,” Cleverly said.
On Monday, Britain confirmed that it would supply Ukraine with this type of ammunition, which is used in weapons because it is able to penetrate tanks and armored vehicles more easily due to its density and other characteristics.
What’s Russia’s comment?
Commenting on this, Putin threatened to “respond” if London provided Ukraine with ammunition containing depleted uranium:
- Today, we learned that the United Kingdom (…) has not only announced the delivery of tanks to Ukraine, but also of shells enriched uranium (…) If that happens, Russia will be forced to respond.
- It seems that the West has already decided to fight Russia to the last Ukrainian, not only in words, but also in deeds.
Britain’s pledge to “uranium weapons”
- On Monday evening, in response to British Defense Secretary Annabel Goldie’s aide to a written question posed by a member of the British Parliament, it was stated that the United Kingdom intends to supply Ukraine Missiles contain depleted uranium.
- In her written response, Goldie stressed that “these munitions are very effective in destroying modern tanks and armored vehicles,” explaining that these missiles are intended for use by Challenger tanks Which London intends to supply Kiev.
What do we know about depleted uranium munitions?
- Depleted uranium is a byproduct of the uranium enrichment process, used in nuclear reactors or weapons.
- Depleted uranium is used in ammunition because of its high density, which makes it ideal for penetrating armor and tanks.
- This type of munition is controversial due to the health and environmental risks associated with its use.
- When fired, this munition produces dust and small particles of depleted uranium into the air, which can be inhaled by people and animals.
- This can lead to long-term health problems, including kidney damage and cancer.
- In addition, depleted uranium munitions can lead to environmental contamination, as small particles can remain in the soil for long periods of time, potentially contaminating water sources and plant and animal life.
- For these reasons and implications, many countries have restricted or banned the use of depleted uranium munitions.
