UK to send depleted uranium shells to Ukraine despite health concerns

In Italy alone, 400 military officers have died and another 8000 are seriously ill after they were exposed to depleted uranium shells during the 1999 Nato bombing of Yugoslavia. 

This has proven a correlation between toxic material and an increase in cancer-related diseases, but it hasn't been easy. 

The use of depleted uranium is not prohibited by any international agreements and Italy is not the only European country where the debate around the use of such weapons is ongoing.

While numerous studies have been conducted on the issue, controversy remains about the effects of exposure to depleted uranium and Italy’s Defence Ministry denies any responsibility.

Euronews spoke with Angelo Tartaglia, an Italian lawyer who has defeated the State in over 300 legal cases in winning compensation for victims and their families.

Mr Tartaglia’s case has raised awareness of the issue and has built a legal framework around the risks in the use of such munitions.

The UK’s decision to send shells made with depleted uranium to Ukraine has raised a few eyebrows.

The use of similar munitions during the 1999 NATO bombing of Yugoslavia is the object of several studies on the health risks posed by the toxic material.

Tartaglia has been defending military officials who have suffered the consequences of exposure to depleted uranium weapons for the past 20 years, proving the link between the use of depleted uranium and several diseases. 

Addressing the UK's announcement that it will send weapons to Ukraine, he said: “Those who say these things must think about the risks and the consequences of their actions. 

"Clearly, some things can be done during the war and others cannot be done like this one. Following the example of Italy where a military law has now