US, UK, and France Warn That Claims of Russia Using 'Dirty Bomb' in Ukraine Are False

Concerns Over 'False Flag Operation' to Justify Nuclear Use
US: "No Physical Evidence of Russian Nuclear Use Yet"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The United States, the United Kingdom, and France jointly dismissed Russia's claim of the possible use of 'dirty bombs' in Ukraine as a clear falsehood. Amid Western countries' speculation that Russia's assertion might be part of a 'false flag' operation to justify nuclear use, U.S. authorities stated they have yet to find any evidence of Russia preparing to use nuclear weapons.

According to CNN on the 24th (local time), the three countries issued a joint statement under the names of their foreign ministers, saying, "Russia's claim of the possible use of dirty bombs in Ukraine is a clear falsehood," and added, "The world will see through any attempt to use this claim as a pretext for escalation."

A dirty bomb refers to a weapon that combines conventional explosives with radioactive materials. While it does not have the destructive power of a nuclear weapon, it causes harm by spreading radiation over a wide area. Especially when used in large quantities, it can cause significant civilian casualties not only in the war zone but also in surrounding areas, which is why the international community prohibits its use.

Ned Price, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, said during a press briefing following the statement, "We intended to send a very clear message that such attempts are transparent and the world will not be deceived by them," warning, "Whether President Putin uses dirty bombs or nuclear bombs, Russia will face consequences." He added, "Secretary of State Antony Blinken is also expected to discuss this issue during his scheduled meeting with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), today."

Earlier, the Russian government, including the Kremlin, Ministry of Defense, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, collectively claimed that Ukraine might use dirty bombs against Western countries. Western intelligence agencies analyze that Russia, facing deteriorating conditions on major Ukrainian fronts, may be engaging in a false flag operation to create a pretext for first use of nuclear weapons.

Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), also tweeted on the same day, "I discussed with the U.S. and U.K. defense ministers Russia's false claim that Ukraine is preparing to use dirty bombs on its own territory," adding, "NATO allies reject such claims. Russia must not use this as a pretext to escalate tensions."

While concerns about imminent Russian nuclear use are cautiously emerging, U.S. authorities have stated they have not yet detected any signs that Russia is preparing to use nuclear weapons. John Kirby, Strategic Communications Coordinator for the White House National Security Council (NSC), said during a press briefing, "We take reports of possible 'dirty bomb' use against Kyiv seriously and are closely monitoring the situation," but added, "However, we have not observed any signs of physical preparations."