The Russians Used Depleted Uranium Munitions In Ukraine's Chernihiv Oblast
- 23.07.2026, 13:32
The SBU has revealed the details.
SBU investigators have opened a criminal investigation
The Security Service of Ukraine announced that it had identified six instances in which Russian troops used depleted uranium munitions during attacks on the Chernihiv region. This was reported by the SBU press service.
According to the investigation, the hazardous components were found in “Geran-2” strike drones, which Russian troops used to carry out strikes on the region from April through June 2026.
Investigators have determined that the Russian army uses R-60M missiles adapted for launch from drones. According to the SBU, radioactive components were found specifically in the warheads of these missiles.
During an inspection of the crash sites of Russian drones, SBU officers, together with specialists from the State Emergency Service, recorded radiation levels 80 times higher than the natural background radiation.
In addition, the gamma radiation levels of individual drone fragments ranged from 8.3 to 24 μSv/h, whereas the permissible health standard, as noted by the agency, is 0.3 μSv/h.
The SBU emphasized that such radiation levels pose an immediate danger to human health and the environment.
An expert assessment conducted at the initiative of the security service confirmed the presence of nuclear material—identified as uranium-235 and uranium-238—in the warheads. The agency clarified that the presence of radioactive components was confirmed using dosimetric equipment and a mobile automated radiological complex.
After the discovery of the dangerous munitions, specialists carried out a series of measures to neutralize them and ensure public safety.
Based on these findings, SBU investigators opened a criminal case under Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (“War Crimes”). The Chernihiv Regional Prosecutor’s Office is overseeing the proceedings in this case.
The SBU also urged citizens to take precautions if they discover debris from drones, missiles, or other munitions. The agency recommends not approaching suspicious objects, not touching them, and not attempting to move them on your own. If such objects are discovered, you must move to a safe distance and immediately report the find to the SBU, the State Emergency Service, or the National Police.