Wednesday saw the United States dismiss Russian complaints regarding Britain’s declaration that it would ship depleted uranium-tipped armor-piercing ammunition to Ukraine.
John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, referred to Moscow’s complaints as “strawman” arguments.
According to Kirby, the ammunition “is not radioactive” and “not anywhere close to going into” the realm of nuclear weaponry, which improves the ability of tanks to overcome defenses.
“This is a commonplace type of munition that is used particularly for its armor-piercing capabilities. So again, if Russia is particularly concerned about the welfare of their tanks and their tank soldiers… they could just take them across the border back into Russia,” he said.
“I think what’s really going on here is Russia just doesn’t want Ukraine to continue to take out its tanks.”
The military support provided to Ukraine’s armed forces as they resist a Russian attack comes primarily from the United States.
Kirby clarified, “We’re not providing depleted uranium,” though.
The Russian defense ministry was criticized by the White House NSC spokesman for awarding medals to pilots engaged in the downing or crash of a sophisticated US military drone over the Black Sea.
The drone is seen being swarmed by what the Pentagon claims are Russian aircraft, who then collide with it before it crashes. According to Moscow, the unmanned US aircraft lost control.
“I don’t know of another military in the world… that has awarded a pilot for smashing into a drone. If that’s bravery then I guess they’ve got a different definition,” Kirby said.
“I have no clue why they would give a bravery award to a pilot who was at worst maliciously putting himself and US property at great risks and at best just an idiot.”
