Kremlin officials are reviving a false narrative about Ukraine’s alleged intentions to use a so-called “dirty bomb” against Russia. According to the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW), this may be part of an information campaign to influence the Western debate on military aid to Kyiv.
Putin and Medvedev launch a wave of nuclear blackmail
During his speech at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum on 20 June, Vladimir Putin, answering a question about the possibility of Ukraine using a “dirty bomb”, said that this would be a “colossal mistake” and threatened a proportionate response. At the same time, he admitted that he had no evidence that Ukraine was preparing for such a step.
The next day, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, went further, threatening that Russia could use tactical nuclear weapons in response.
ISW: this is an element of the old strategy
ISW analysts recalled that the Kremlin had already intensified such rhetoric in March and October 2022. Back then, statements about a “dirty bomb” and the threat of nuclear escalation coincided with discussions in the United States and Europe about decisions to supply weapons to Ukraine.
“Russian officials may be returning to this narrative amid ongoing debate in the West over new military support for Ukraine,” the report notes.
According to experts, such statements are intended to sow fear, weaken Western resolve and slow down the provision of critical assistance to Kyiv.
What is a dirty bomb?
A “dirty bomb” is not a nuclear weapon. It is a conventional explosive device containing radioactive substances. Its main purpose is psychological and social effects, not large-scale destruction.
