The US, UK and France have rejected Russia’s claims that Ukraine plans to use so-called ‘dirty bombs’ in the ongoing conflict, with the Kremlin seeking to use the claims as a pretext for further escalation. criticized.
As Ukrainian forces march into the Russian-occupied Kherson province, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu called the West on October 23, saying that Russia was planning to use a “dirty bomb” in Kyiv. I told him I doubted it.
In a joint statement issued on October 24, the French, British and US foreign ministers rejected “clearly false claims by Russia that Ukraine is preparing to use dirty bombs on its territory”. Stated.
The Foreign Minister added: Furthermore, we reject any pretext for escalation by Russia. ”
The two leaders reiterated their “unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Russia’s ongoing aggression” and “will continue to support efforts to defend Ukraine’s territory as long as necessary.” swore
objection
Shoigu claimed in a series of calls with officials in the UK, US, France and Turkey.
According to the Russian Defense Ministry, Shoigu expressed concern about “possible Ukrainian provocations involving ‘dirty bombs’ or explosive devices that spread radioactive contamination.”
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told Shoigu that he “rejected any pretext for Russian escalation” in Ukraine, according to the Pentagon.
Similarly, British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace “strongly rejected” Russia’s allegations and warned Russia not to try to use it as a “pretext” to escalate the conflict.
The Ukrainian government has accused the Kremlin of planning a false flag attack.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a speech overnight that Russia’s accusations show that Russia is planning such an attack and that he will blame Ukraine.
“If Russia calls and says Ukraine is preparing something, it means one thing: Russia is already preparing all this,” Zelensky said.
“Today, when the Minister of Defense of Russia organizes a telephone carousel and calls the Minister of Foreign Affairs to talk about the so-called“ dirty ”nuclear bombs, everyone understands everything very well and who is the source of all the dirty things imaginable in this war. understand what is
PA Media and Reuters contributed to this report.
follow