Russia downplays U.S. and European move to give tanks to Ukraine

Russia reacted on Tuesday to moves by the U.S. and Europe to give tanks to Ukraine to assist in its efforts to repel Russia from its borders, suggesting that it wouldn't make much difference in the conflict.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the action "disastrous" but said it "overestimates the potential it will add to the Ukrainian army."

“These tanks burn just like all the others,” he said.

On Thursday, Peskov confirmed that Russia considers the furnishing of the tanks as "direct" participation in the war, which could lead to retaliation.

The U.S. will be giving 31 Abrams M1 battle tanks to Ukraine.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to the gift of the tanks by asking for fighter jets and ammunition.