Senior Pentagon officials recommended providing Ukraine with white phosphorus munitions for use in battlefield illumination and smoke screens, but the White House has repeatedly rejected the idea due to concerns over civilian harm.

White phosphorus is not illegal, but its use carries significant risks, including severe burns and respiratory damage.

The Pentagon’s recommendation aimed to supply Ukraine with these shells for non-lethal purposes, but the Biden administration has hesitated due to the stigma and potential impact on civilians, NBC News has reported.

The U.S. is expected to announce more military aid to Ukraine soon, though without including white phosphorus.

Written by B.C. Begley