The United States of America (USA) will provide Ukraine with depleted uranium ammunition for tanks as part of a $175 million aid package, the Pentagon announced today, Radio Free Europe reports.
The 120-millimeter bullets are intended for the American M1 Abrams, the Pentagon said, referring to the tanks that Washington has promised to Kiev.
The density of uranium, about 1,7 times that of lead, helps such ammunition penetrate heavy armor.
However, depleted uranium is controversial due to its association with health problems such as cancer and birth defects, although the munitions have not been definitively proven to be the cause.
The US pioneered the international support initiative for Ukraine, forming an international coalition to support the country after Russia invaded in February last year.
Washington has promised Kiev more than 43 billion dollars in military aid.
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