The United States is preparing to supply Ukraine with depleted-uranium tank shells alongside the 31 M1A2 Abrams tanks scheduled for delivery later this year. These potent shells, known for their exceptional armor-piercing capabilities, are a mainstay in the US military. While the Department of Defense has advocated for their inclusion, concerns regarding potential health and environmental impacts have been raised within the administration.

Although not radioactive, depleted-uranium shells can pose health risks if shrapnel becomes embedded in the body. Russia has criticized the UK for providing similar ammunition to Ukraine, alleging the West is supplying weapons with a "nuclear component." However, experts emphasize the shells' effectiveness against armored vehicles. As former Army artillery officer Scott Boston explained, the dense projectile delivers significant kinetic energy upon impact, making it highly effective against enemy armor.

The arrival of the Abrams tanks, expected by fall, will substantially enhance Ukraine's armored forces, which have already received German-made Leopard II tanks from European allies. Ukrainian troops are currently undergoing training in Germany on the operation and maintenance of these sophisticated turbine-engine tanks. The Pentagon's initial reluctance to supply the Abrams stemmed from the complex maintenance requirements of these advanced vehicles.

Equipped with depleted-uranium rounds, the Abrams tanks can effectively penetrate even heavily armored Russian tanks from a considerable distance. Ukraine has already deployed its Western-supplied armored vehicles in its ongoing counteroffensive, reclaiming several villages from Russian forces. However, achieving a decisive breakthrough against entrenched Russian lines remains a significant challenge. The counteroffensive underscores the arduous nature of the conflict, with Ukrainian forces facing a difficult fight to liberate the approximately 20% of their territory currently occupied by Russia.

While Ukrainian officials have reported territorial gains, these claims have not been independently verified and have been met with denial from Russian authorities. The limited advances highlight the tough battle ahead for Ukrainian forces.