Ukraine Reports Extensive Use of Chemical Weapons by Russia

The Ukrainian delegation presented its findings during the 111th session of the OPCW Executive Council in The Hague, held from March 10 to 13. They asserted that Russia's systematic use of dangerous chemical substances has severely undermined the global non-proliferation regime and international security.

As the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine approaches, this claim underscores the ongoing concerns about the proliferation of chemical warfare. During the session, Ukrainian representatives highlighted key issues, including the persistent and increasing use of toxic agents by Russian forces against Ukraine.

Such actions are considered egregious violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The Ukrainian government has documented over 12,500 instances where Russian ammunition containing hazardous chemical materials has been deployed.

Andrii Kostin, head of the Ukrainian delegation and Ukraine's permanent representative at the OPCW, stressed the urgent need for effective mechanisms within the OPCW. These mechanisms should not only confirm the use of chemical weapons but also identify those responsible, encompassing executors, organizers, and sponsors of such acts.

The report also drew connections to past incidents involving nerve agents, implicating Russian actions beyond Ukraine, such as the poisoning of Sergei Skripal in the UK and opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Ukraine has backed a joint initiative from France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the UK, pressing for accountability for Russia's recurring and systemic violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

The delegation also noted alarming trends, such as the use of drones to deliver toxic chemicals to trenches and other confined positions on the battlefield. The Ukrainian government expressed gratitude to the OPCW's Director-General and the Technical Secretariat for their ongoing support, which includes expert assistance for national investigations in Ukraine.

Additionally, financial contributions from partner states to enhance capabilities for countering chemical threats were acknowledged. Ukraine reiterated its unwavering commitment to the goals and principles of the Chemical Weapons Convention and its intention to continue cooperating with the OPCW and allied nations.

This engagement aims to strengthen global prohibitions against chemical weapons and ensure accountability for their use.