radiation levels rose 80-fold: Russia attacked Ukraine with uranium-equipped drones Ukraine has accused Russia of using attack drones equipped with uranium-containing warheads after investigators detected unusually high radiation levels at strike sites in the Chernihiv region. The allegations, if independently verified, would mark a significant escalation in concerns over the types of weapons being deployed in the war. Radiation alarms after drone strikes Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) said investigators and emergency specialists examined debris from Russian Geran-2 drones used in attacks between April and June. According to the agency, radiation readings on some fragments reached up to 24 microsieverts per hour—around 80 times higher than the area's reported natural background level. Officials said the contaminated debris was isolated and the affected locations were secured. They also warned the public not to approach drone or missile wreckage and to contact emergency services instead. Warheads 'contained uranium materials' The SBU claims forensic examinations found modified R-60M missile warheads fitted to drones contained uranium-235 and uranium-238. Ukrainian authorities said the presence of the radioactive materials was confirmed using dosimeters and a mobile radiological laboratory. The agency has opened a war crimes investigation under Article 438 of Ukraine's Criminal Code, alleging the use of hazardous weapons during the attacks. Claims remain unverified Ukraine has not publicly released independent laboratory findings supporting its conclusions, and Russia has not responded to the allegations. The claims have not been independently verified. While depleted uranium has been used in armour-piercing ammunition by several militaries, including Western forces, Ukraine's statement specifically alleges the presence of uranium isotopes in drone-mounted warheads. The SBU did not explain the intended military purpose of the materials or provide further technical details. Security fears widen beyond the battlefield The allegations come as Ukraine continues to warn of broader Russian hybrid threats beyond the front line. Ukrainian officials have previously claimed Moscow could stage provocations involving drones disguised as Ukrainian aircraft to target NATO member states, including Poland and the Baltic nations, in an effort to undermine Western backing for Kyiv. If confirmed, the latest allegations would add another dangerous dimension to a conflict already marked by increasingly sophisticated drone warfare and growing concerns over the use of unconventional weapons. Radiation levels rose 80-fold: Russia attacked Ukraine with uranium-equipped drones
