Reports of a “Dirty Bomb” Are Spreading
(DailyVantage.com) – More than eight months have passed since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the altercation shows no signs of abating anytime soon. Both sides have waged a war of propaganda throughout the conflict, often spreading rumors to control outcomes. The latest is a doozy, and the reports could signal the Kremlin is looking to escalate the conflict even further, according to US officials.
Ukraine Will Attack Itself?
In a series of recent calls, Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Defense Minister, has voiced concerns that Ukraine will use a dirty bomb. Yet, here’s where it gets interesting: Shoigu isn’t saying Ukraine will attack Russia. Instead, he claims the defending nation will bomb itself and blame Russia, thus escalating the already precarious situation.
US officials rebuked this claim, saying it classifies as a false flag operation. Adrienne Watson, a National Security Council spokeswoman, says the agency “rejects [the] reports.” She added, “the world would see through” this attempt to “use this allegation as a pretext for escalation.”
The United States isn’t the only country denying these claims. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also chimed in, calling them “stories.” France and the UK also commented, echoing sentiments in support of Ukraine.
Atomic vs. Dirty Bomb
Anything with the word “bomb” in it will likely spark concern at a base level and possibly panic. However, there’s a distinguishable difference between a “dirty” bomb and an atomic one.
Per the CDC, dirty bombs contain explosives and sometimes dynamite in combination with radioactive materials. When the bomb explodes, the immediate danger is to people nearest the blast site. They’re at risk of injury from the explosive itself. Radioactive material is still a concern, especially when inhaled, but it can’t cause the same level of radioactivity or fallout as an atomic blast.
Atomic bombs are much more devastating. They create huge mushroom clouds, spreading radioactive material further, and typically cause much more damage than dirty devices. During the second world war, bombs of approximately 15 kilotons caused death and destruction in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for instance.
Communication Is Essential
While no negotiations are currently underway between Russia and Ukraine, other world countries, including the US, engage in constant talks. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has recently tried to remain in touch with his Russian counterpart after a lack of consistent calls. Despite rejecting Shoigu’s claims, Austin stressed the importance of open communications. The two plan to have a follow-up call.
Do you think Russia intends to escalate the war?
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