UK to hand over depleted uranium shells to Ukraine, Putin responds

This is stated on the government website, where Goldie was answering questions from Lord Hylton, a member of the House of Lords.

Such ammunition is suitable for Challenger 2 tanks and is highly effective in destroying modern tanks and armored vehicles.

"Alongside our granting of a squadron of Challenger 2 main battle tanks to Ukraine, we will be providing ammunition including armour piercing rounds which contain depleted uranium. Such rounds are highly effective in defeating modern tanks and armoured vehicle," she said.

Russia has already responded to the UK's intention to provide Ukraine with depleted uranium shells. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that he was not surprised by the possible supply of these shells, "since the United Kingdom has long lost its bearings." The diplomat believes that London's actions undermine strategic stability around the world.

"If this is true, then they are ready to take not just risks, but to violate international humanitarian law," Lavrov was quoted as saying by the Russian media.

"There is no doubt that this will end badly for them," the Russian minister added.

Later, Vladimir Putin responded to this statement directly, saying that "the West has decided to fight Russia to the last Ukrainian, not in words but in deeds."

"Russia will be forced to respond if the collective West starts using weapons with a nuclear component," Putin added.

• British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed during a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that his country would provide Ukraine with Challenger 2 tanks.