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Radiation-Spiking Russian Drone Debris Found After Attacks on Chernihiv Region
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Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) says investigators found radioactive uranium components in Russian Geran-2 strike drones used against the Chernihiv region, with some wreckage emitting radiation as high as 80 times the normal background level.
The SBU reported the findings on July 23 after documenting several Russian attacks carried out between April and June 2026.
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According to the investigation, Russian forces adapted R-60M air-to-air missiles for use aboard the drones and employed radioactive elements in the missiles’ components.
SBU investigators and specialists from Ukraine’s State Emergency Service examined the impact sites and conducted radiological testing of recovered warhead fragments.
The teams recorded gamma radiation ranging from 8.3 to 24 microsieverts per hour. Ukraine’s stated sanitary limit is 0.3 microsieverts per hour, making the highest recorded level roughly 80 times greater.
🇺🇦Security Service confirmed 🇷🇺 use of depleted uranium in missiles on Chernihiv region.
— Center for Countering Disinformation (@CforCD) July 23, 2026
New evidence shows 🇷🇺 forces employed radioactive elements in P-60M rockets fitted to Geran-2 drones.
Radiation levels from fragments exceeded safe limits by up to 80 times. pic.twitter.com/kBBBz6YYPX
The SBU said such radiation posed a direct danger to human health and the environment.
Laboratory testing commissioned by the agency identified the material in the missile components as uranium-235 and uranium-238. The presence of radioactive substances was also confirmed using dosimeters and a mobile automated radiological testing system.
After examining the hazardous munitions, Ukrainian authorities carried out measures to neutralize the materials and protect civilians in the affected areas.
The agency again urged civilians not to approach or handle fragments of drones, missiles, or other munitions and to immediately report any wreckage to emergency services.
The investigation remains underway under the supervision of the Chernihiv Regional Prosecutor’s Office.
Previously, the SBU opened a criminal investigation into a Russian drone strike on the Centralized Spent Nuclear Fuel Storage Facility near the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, classifying the attack as a suspected war crime.
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