Russia Deploys Depleted‑Uranium Armed Drones in Ukraine Conflict

Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has disclosed that Russian forces have been fitting Geran‑2 kamikaze drones with missiles containing depleted‑uranium (DU) compounds. Laboratory analysis of wreckage identified uranium‑235 and uranium‑238 isotopes in the warheads, confirming the use of radioactive material to enhance armor‑piercing capability.

Radiation measurements at impact sites showed gamma levels between 8.3 and 24 µSv per hour – up to 80 times the natural background and far above the 0.3 µSv/h health threshold. Experts warn that prolonged exposure could increase cancer risk and cause environmental contamination.

The SBU has opened a criminal investigation under Ukraine’s war‑crimes statutes and is coordinating de‑contamination and security measures in the affected areas. International legal implications are being considered as the use of DU munitions may breach weapons conventions.