Russia claims Ukraine allegedly preparing to use 'dirty bomb'

Russia’s defence ministry said Mr Shoigu voiced concern about 'possible Ukrainian provocations involving a dirty bomb,' a device that uses explosives to scatter radioactive waste

Russian authorities reported that they are building defensive positions in occupied areas of Ukraine (LIBKOS/AP)

Russia’s defence chief on Sunday alleged that Ukraine was preparing a “provocation” involving a radioactive device, a stark claim that was strongly rejected by Ukrainian and British officials amid soaring tensions as Moscow struggles to stem Ukrainian advances in the south.

Russia’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu made the allegations in phone calls with his counterparts from the United States, Britain, France and Turkey.