IN a recent development, the Biden administration has decided to supply Ukraine with depleted uranium shells, which will be utilised to arm the M1A1 Abrams tanks that are being sent by the United States. It is worth noting that the United Kingdom has already furnished Ukraine with tanks equipped with depleted-uranium shells.

In the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the use of depleted uranium munitions has become a matter of grave concern. This dangerous weaponry poses severe health and environmental hazards, with potentially long-lasting consequences that must not be overlooked. The international community must take immediate action to address this issue before irreparable damage is done.

Depleted uranium munitions, commonly used in armour-piercing projectiles and tank shells, possess devastating penetrative capabilities. However, their impact extends far beyond the immediate battlefield. When these munitions strike a target, they release aerosolised uranium particles into the air, soil and water, contaminating the environment and putting both troops and civilians at risk.

The health risks associated with depleted uranium are well-documented. Upon inhalation or ingestion, radioactive particles can lodge in the body, leading to long-term exposure and potential radiation sickness. Studies have linked depleted uranium exposure to a range of severe health conditions, including cancers, birth defects and kidney damage. The consequences can affect not only those directly exposed, but also future generations, as the toxic effects of uranium can be inherited.

Furthermore, the contamination of soil and water sources with depleted uranium poses a significant ecological threat. The long half-life of uranium means that these pollutants will persist in the environment for thousands of years, wreaking havoc on ecosystems and endangering flora and fauna. The contamination of water supplies, in particular, can have far-reaching implications for human populations, leading to the spread of radioactive substances and the deterioration of public health.

The use of depleted uranium munitions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict not only violates international humanitarian law, but also disregards the principles of environmental protection. The Geneva Conventions explicitly prohibit the use of weapons that cause unnecessary suffering or have indiscriminate effects. It is evident that depleted uranium munitions fall into this category, as their harmful effects extend well beyond the battlefield and can harm civilians long after the conflict has ended.

The international community must not turn a blind eye to this pressing issue. Diplomatic channels must be used to exert pressure on the warring parties to immediately cease the use of depleted uranium munitions. The United Nations, in collaboration with relevant agencies and organisations, should launch an independent investigation into the extent of the contamination and the resulting health and environmental risks.

Additionally, steps must be taken to provide medical assistance and support to those affected by depleted uranium exposure, both during and after the conflict. Affected areas should be thoroughly assessed, and measures implemented to decontaminate the environment and safeguard water supplies, minimising the potential for further harm.

Prevention is the key to avoiding the irreversible damage caused by depleted uranium munitions. The international community must work collectively to enact stricter regulations on the use and production of such weaponry. This includes promoting disarmament initiatives, investing in research and development of safer alternatives, and strengthening international legal frameworks to ensure compliance and accountability.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has already caused immense suffering and displacement. We cannot allow the use of depleted uranium munitions to compound the tragedy.

The hazards associated with these weapons are undeniable, and swift action is essential to protect the health and well being of those caught in the crossfire. Let us join forces to to prevent further devastation from unfolding.

Dr Musab Riaz
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, July 17th, 2023