Radiation safety

Lithuania Stocks Up on ‘Millions of Iodine Pills’ Fearing Radiation Leak at Belarus Nuclear Plant

Vilnius, which abandoned nuclear energy a decade ago, has repeatedly voiced opposition to the construction of a nuclear power plant close to its border, branding it a threat to national security. Belarus calls these concerns groundless, citing regular stress tests and close cooperation with foreign partners.

Lithuania has reportedly decided to buy over 4 million iodine tablets in preparation for the opening of a nuclear power plant in neighbouring Belarus.

The Lithuanian government told AP in a statement that the pills, worth roughly $1 million, are expected to be delivered in mid-September.

Citizens will get them for free in case of a radiation leak at the nuclear power plant, which Belarus plans to unveil later this year.

The thyroid cells are damaged or destroyed when they absorb radiation, and iodine is used to block the thyroid gland from radiation exposure.