Russia accused of damaging Baltic water quality by dumping nuclear waste

Russia has been accused of dumping chemical weapons and radioactive waste in the Baltic Sea, it has been reported.

Earlier this week, Swedish broadcaster SVT alleged that Russia had released toxic waste into the waters off Gotland between 1991 and 1994.

Swedish prime minister Fredrik Reinfeldt has stated that his administration was not aware of the incident and has asked the previous government to explain why it did nothing at the time.

According to the broadcaster, the government was aware of the Russian military's actions but did not act to prevent the dumping or clear up afterwards. The waste allegedly originated from a naval base in Latvia.

The Baltic Sea is one of the most polluted waters in the world, with years of waste from Russian cities and heavy industry causing serious damage to the marine environment, the BBC explained.

A conference between heads of state from countries bordering the body of water is due to take place in Helsinki next week, where politicians are set to discuss the issues and try to formulate solutions.

Posted by Lauren Steadman