Ukrainian Security Service Discovers Radioactive Uranium in Wreckage of Russian Drone

Elevated Radiation Levels Detected on Drone Fragments

According to ХВИЛЯ: In the early hours of April 7, 2026, a Russian attack drone struck the Chernihiv region. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) later found heightened radiation levels on the debris. The unmanned aerial vehicle, identified as a Geran-2, was equipped with an R-60 air-to-air missile. The wreckage was discovered near the village of Kamka, where gamma radiation readings near the fragments reached 12 µSv/h.

Personnel from the SBU, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES), and the Defense Forces worked together to safely neutralize the missile's warhead. After securing the area, the warhead was transported to a designated radioactive waste storage facility. Experts determined that the warhead contained penetrating elements made from depleted uranium, specifically uranium-235 and uranium-238.

Investigation and Emergency Hotlines

In response to this incident, SBU investigators have launched a pre-trial inquiry under Article 438 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which covers war crimes. The Chernihiv Regional Prosecutor's Office is overseeing the procedural aspects of the case.

For reporting concerns, the following hotlines are available:

• SBU - 15-16
• SES - 101
• National Police - 102

The discovery of elevated radiation on the drone's wreckage highlights serious risks tied to the use of hazardous materials in armed conflicts. It also underscores the critical need for radiation safety monitoring in war-affected areas. The SBU's investigation could have far-reaching implications for future weapons deployments involving radioactive components and may influence international standards on warfare conduct.

The ongoing use of drones in the conflict has raised significant concerns about civilian safety. Recently, a tragic incident in the Chernihiv region resulted in the loss of a father and son due to a Russian drone strike on a farm. This event further emphasizes the dangers posed by aerial attacks and the potential for collateral damage in populated areas. For more details on this heartbreaking situation, read about the recent drone strike that claimed innocent lives.