SBU: Russia uses depleted uranium munitions in Chernihiv Oblast
The Russians have once again struck Ukraine with depleted uranium munitions (Photo: Security Service of Ukraine)
Ukraine's SBU Security Service has identified six additional instances of [Russia using depleted uranium munitions during strikes on Chernihiv Oblast, the SBU press service reported on July 23.
According to investigators, hazardous components were found in Geran-2 attack drones that Russian forces used to strike Chernihiv Oblast between April and June 2026. Investigators also said Russia is using radioactive elements in R-60M missiles that have been adapted for use on Russian drones.
While inspecting sites where Russian drones struck, specialists from Ukraine's State Emergency Service recorded radiation levels up to 80 times above natural background levels.
Gamma radiation from individual drone fragments measured between 8.3 and 24 microsieverts per hour, compared with a permissible sanitary standard of 0.3 microsieverts per hour — a level posing a direct threat to human health and the environment, the SBU said.
Forensic examination also found that the missile warheads contained nuclear material identified as uranium-235 and uranium-238. Investigators have opened a criminal case under Article 438 of Ukraine's Criminal Code, covering war crimes.
The SBU reported similar findings on July 16, confirming that Russia is using radioactive drones — munitions containing depleted uranium elements — which were found in Geran-2 attack drones used in strikes on Sumy Oblast.
The SBU urged residents to exercise particular caution if they encounter drone or missile fragments or other weapon debris, warning against approaching, touching or moving such objects.
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