Ukraine’s Security Service documents new cases of Russia using depleted uranium munitions against Ukraine. The dangerous components were found in Geran-2 attack drones used by Russian forces to strike Chernihiv region between April and June 2026.
According to the investigation, Russia is using radioactive elements from R-60M missiles, which were modified for deployment on its unmanned aerial vehicles.
During inspections of drone impact sites and radiological examinations of their warheads, investigators and State Emergency Service specialists recorded radiation levels up to 80 times above the natural background level.
The gamma radiation level of some fragments from the Russian drones ranged from 8.3 to 24 μSv/h, compared with the permitted sanitary limit of 0.3 μSv/h. Such radiation levels pose a direct threat to human health and the environment.
An expert examination initiated by the Security Service established that the warheads contained nuclear materials identified as Uranium-235 and Uranium-238.
The presence of radioactive components was confirmed using dosimetric equipment and a mobile automated radiological monitoring system. After the dangerous munitions were discovered and examined, comprehensive measures were taken to neutralize them and protect civilians.
The Security Service has opened criminal proceedings under Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (war crimes). The agency again urges citizens to exercise caution when discovering fragments of drones, missiles, or other ammunition.
The investigation is ongoing under the procedural supervision of the Chernihiv Regional Prosecutor’s Office.
