Both the Dutch and German intelligence agencies are currently compiling evidence regarding Russia’s alleged use of banned chemical weapons in Ukraine. This includes reports of suffocating agents being dropped from drones, with soldiers being forced out into the open for targeting.
Dutch Defense Minister Reuben Brekelmans has advocated for tougher sanctions against Moscow.
He stated, “We can confirm that Russia is ramping up its use of chemical weapons,” when speaking to Reuters.
Brekelmans noted that this escalation fits into a pattern observed over several years, where the normalization of chemical weapons use in this conflict has become more widespread.
The German BND Foreign Intelligence Agency has corroborated these findings, mentioning that it has gathered evidence alongside its Dutch counterparts. Information was initially reported by Reuters.
Peter Leesink, head of the Dutch Military Intelligence Agency, remarked that their conclusions are based on their own independent intelligence and research.
Reuters hasn’t been able to verify the claims of banned chemicals being utilized by forces on either side in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The U.S. initially accused Russia of deploying chloropicrine, a substance that is considered more harmful than typical riot control agents, with Germany first raising concerns about its use in May of the previous year.
Ukraine asserts that there have been thousands of reported incidents involving the use of chemical weapons by Russia.
The Russian Ministry of Defense has not responded to requests for comments regarding these allegations. Russia has denied using illegal munitions, countering accusations by blaming Ukraine instead.
Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, recently claimed to have discovered caches of explosive devices, including chloropicrine, attributed to Ukraine in the eastern part of the country.
Ukraine has continuously rejected these accusations.
The Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which includes 193 member states, noted last year that evidence for charges from both sides wasn’t convincingly demonstrated.
Although a full investigation isn’t mandated by the OPCW, such an inquiry must be initiated by member states.
So far, three Ukrainians have been linked to instances of chemical weapons use, while over 2,500 battlefield injuries reported by Ukrainian health authorities have shown symptoms associated with chemical weapons exposure, according to Brekelmans.
The growing use of chemical weapons by Russia could pose a risk not only to Ukraine but to other nations as well, he added.
Brekelmans emphasized the need for enhanced pressure, suggesting the consideration of additional sanctions and preventing Russia from participating in international organizations like the OPCW’s Executive Council.
Reesink indicated that there have been “thousands of instances” of chemical weapons usage, referring to figures estimating around 9,000 affected Ukrainians.
The OPCW Council is expected to engage in negotiations soon, as its two-year seat rotation is approaching.
The letter detailing these findings was sent to the Dutch Parliament on Friday.
Large Programme
Russia, which is a member of the OPCW and has previously destroyed its declared stockpiles of chemical weapons, may face increased sanctions. The European Commission is reportedly considering adding 15 new entities and individuals to the sanctions list, including those linked to alleged chemical weapons activities in Ukraine.
The Dutch military and intelligence agencies are collaborating with international partners to uncover robust evidence regarding the intensification of Russian chemical weapons production.
This may involve recruiting scientists to boost research capacity and develop chemical weapons further, as indicated by Reesink, who also mentioned that Russian officials have given soldiers instructions on utilizing toxic agents.
He stated, “This isn’t just about ad hoc tactics in the field; it’s part of a much broader program. If we don’t publicly address what Russia is doing, these troubling trends are likely to persist,” adding that the use of chemical weapons by the Russian military has become a nearly standard procedure.
Reesink pointed out that chloropicrin is often linked to improvised munitions, such as light bulbs and empty bottles designed for drone deployment. He mentioned that existing materials are being repurposed to facilitate the dispersion of tear gas.
Chloropicrine, classified as a suffocating agent by the OPCW, is regulated by the Chemical Weapons Convention established in 1997. It can lead to severe irritation of the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. If ingested, it may cause burns to the mouth and stomach, as well as nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
