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Britain promises depleted uranium ammunition for Ukraine, a radioactive weapon that has angered Russia. Photos/graphics Mail Online
MOSCOW – The British government has promised to provide depleted uranium (DU) ammunition to Ukraine as a weapon for the fight against the Russian invasion. The London appointment has sparked outrage Moscow .
The DU that London promised will be ammunition for the Challenger 2 battle tanks that Britain is soon to send to Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin was furious and warned London against supplying Kiev with such ammunition.
“I would like to note that if this happens, then Russia will be forced to react, given that the Western collective has already started using weapons with a nuclear component,” Putin said.
Similar warnings were made by Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu, who said the move would bring the world one step closer to a nuclear holocaust. “Another step has been taken, and there is less left,” he said.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, for her part, told Sputnik, which was reported Thursday (23/3/2023), that Britain’s plan to deliver uranium projectiles to Ukraine is London’s latest reckless provocation, aimed at bringing the situation in Ukraine to a new level. “a new chapter of conflict.”
What Is Depleted Uranium?
To better understand what depleted uranium (DU) is, keep in mind that uranium ores contain a mixture of isotopes, that is, forms of the element with slightly different physical properties.
The ore is processed to increase the content of the most radioactive isotope, U-235, which is used as a nuclear fuel and to make nuclear warheads.
This byproduct of uranium enrichment is known as DU, which is still radioactive, but at a much lower level than the starting material.
What Is Depleted Uranium Used For?
The main application of DU relates to its high density. DU has been used as a counterweight in aircraft, missiles, and even forklift trucks and ship hulls.
