Ukraine denies any potential use of dirty nuclear bombs
Introduction
Ukraine has consistently denied Russian allegations that it plans to use “dirty bombs” – radiological weapons combining conventional explosives with radioactive material – against nuclear facilities in occupied Ukraine or Russia. These claims, renewed by Russia in August 2024 regarding the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (under Russian occupation) and Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, follow a pattern of disinformation campaigns dating back to 2022.
Key Developments and Denials
Ukraine’s Response
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry dismissed the 2024 allegations as “insane Russian propaganda,” emphasizing that Ukraine “has neither the intention nor the ability” to deploy such weapons.
A Kovalenko, a Ukrainian counter-disinformation official, warned that Russia itself “may be preparing a nuclear provocation”.
Historical Context
Similar Russian claims in 2022 about Ukrainian “dirty bomb” development were debunked by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections, which found no evidence of undeclared nuclear activities.
Ukraine remains a committed signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and lacks facilities to produce radiological weapons.
International Reactions
Western Governments
The U.S., UK, France, and NATO have repeatedly rejected Russian allegations as “transparently false” and potential pretexts for escalation.
A 2024 Atlantic Council report highlighted Russia’s use of fabricated evidence, including recycled photos from Russian state nuclear company Rosatom, to support these claims.
Analyst Assessments
Experts suggest Russia’s narrative aims to destabilize Western support for Ukraine, justify defensive measures around the Kursk plant amid Ukrainian advances, and lay groundwork for potential false-flag operations.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted in 2022 that such claims often accompany Russian nuclear saber-rattling to deter military aid to Ukraine.
Broader Nuclear Tensions
Russia has intensified nuclear signaling since 2022, including updates to its nuclear doctrine in November 2024 threatening responses to attacks involving Western-supplied weapons. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk Oblast – bringing forces closer to the Kursk plant – has heightened Moscow’s defensive rhetoric.
Conclusion
The international community largely views Russia’s “dirty bomb” allegations as disinformation tactics rather than credible threats. While Ukraine maintains its non-proliferation commitments, concerns persist over Russia’s willingness to exploit nuclear safety fears for strategic gains. The IAEA continues monitoring occupied Zaporizhzhia, though its ability to verify safety claims remains limited.
