Kyiv authorities have reported the discovery of “hazardous radiation” on remnants from a Russian missile believed to contain uranium warhead components. Ukraine has identified heightened levels of fragments on Vladimir Putin’s R-60 air-to-air missile, used in an attack on Chernihiv Oblast recently. Experts have measured a gamma radiation level of 12 µSv/h, posing a significant health risk.
The R-60 missile, an infrared-homing heat-seeking weapon, is designed to defend against low-flying Ukrainian aircraft and interceptor helicopters. It was affixed to a modified Shahed-136. Ukraine asserts that the Russian rocket, found in Kamka on April 7, contained traces of uranium-235 and uranium-238 associated with depleted uranium elements.
Allegations of war crimes have prompted an investigation into the situation. Ukraine’s SBU security service confirmed the elevated radiation levels on the debris and has taken preventive measures to protect the public from further exposure. The Security Service of Ukraine stated that the combat part of the Russian missile comprised depleted uranium warheads labeled as Uran-235 and Uran-238.
Following a radiation survey near the drone debris with the missile, a gamma radiation level of 12 microsieverts per hour was recorded, surpassing the natural radiation background and posing a risk to human health. The SBU collaborated with the State Emergency Service and the Armed Forces of Ukraine to secure the combat part of the missile and transport it to a radioactive waste storage facility.
Authorities have issued a cautionary advisory regarding the discovery, advising vigilance in handling drone debris, missiles, or other ammunition due to potential radioactive exposure risks. Meanwhile, the Russian Armed Forces have initiated a three-day nuclear weapons exercise in Belarus amid speculations of a planned invasion of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania by Putin.
The drills involve over 64,000 military personnel and more than 7,800 units of equipment and aim to enhance preparedness in using modern destructive means, including special ammunition. Belarus has restricted residents from entering forest areas near the borders with Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine during the exercises.
Putin’s visit to Beijing for a summit with Xi Jinping was marked by his seemingly uncomfortable gait, possibly due to stiffness or discomfort in his right leg. Putin, using platform shoes to match his height with Xi, was noted to appear awkward during the encounter at the Great Hall of the People in Tiananmen Square, drawing remarks from Ukrainian sources.
