Russian Security Secretary Raises Alarm Over Depleted Uranium Weapons Impact in Europe

Depleted Uranium Shells Lead to Radiation Increase

In recent disclosures, Nikolai Patrushev, the Russian Security Council Secretary, has indicated that depleted uranium shells dispatched to Ukraine by the United Kingdom and the United States are causing a spike in radiation levels across Europe. The situation has triggered concern over the environmental and health consequences of such armaments.

Ignored Warnings and Radiological Risks

Patrushev at a security meeting recounted that Europe is now experiencing the repercussions of ignored warnings regarding the destruction of munitions depots holding depleted uranium shells intended for use against Russia. This has subsequently led to measurable increases in radiation.

The European Committee on Radiological Risks (ECRR) observed a rise in airborne uranium particles, particularly in the south-east of the UK, attributed to air mass movements from Western Ukraine. Patrushev emphasized that this underlines a lack of concern by Western political elites for the safety and health of their populace, given their decisions to supply these weapons to Ukraine.

Long-term Consequences and Russia’s Stance

Russia’s repeated cautions about the dire implications of the West providing Ukraine with munitions containing depleted uranium were highlighted by Patrushev. The use of such weapons, he warned, might negatively impact human health and the environment for decades, not only in Ukraine but also throughout the continent.

The threats to radiation safety have substantially escalated due to the utilization of depleted uranium projectiles by Ukrainian forces, according to Patrushev. This year alone, permissions from the UK and US have marked a worrying trend of providing such contentious armaments to Ukraine.

Responses from the United States and Criticism from the Kremlin

John Kirby, the US National Security Council’s Strategic Communications Coordinator, refuted claims concerning the health risks of these munitions, stating they are not carcinogenic or radioactive. Contrarily, the Kremlin criticized the decisions made by London and Washington, holding them accountable for the potential consequences arising from the usage of these projectiles.

Despite depleted uranium being less hazardous than elements like mercury or arsenic, its detonation results in uranium oxide production, ensuing environmental pollution and the potential for severe illnesses among people.

Conclusion

The statements by Russian Security Secretary Nikolai Patrushev have drawn attention to the significant environmental and public health issues associated with the supply of depleted uranium weapons to Ukraine. The risks highlighted in the European regions, especially in line with the increased radiation readings, indicate a growing concern that may necessitate international scrutiny and response.

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Source: Sputnik World