Dutch intelligence exposed Russia’s large-scale use of chemical weapons in Ukraine
Фото: Генштаб
According to Dutch intelligence services, the Russian military is actively using chemical agents against Ukrainian defenders, including dropping poisonous mixtures from drones to force soldiers out of fortifications.
This was announced by the Dutch Minister of Defense, Ruben Brekelmans, and the head of the country’s military intelligence in an interview with Reuters.
They emphasize that the use of banned chemicals is becoming a systemic practice for the Kremlin – these are not isolated cases, but part of a large-scale program that has been developing for several years. In particular, we are talking about the substance chloropicrin – a toxic agent that is banned by international conventions and was first used during the First World War.
The head of the Netherlands Military Intelligence Agency, Peter Risink, emphasized that the conclusions are based on the service’s own investigations and observations, and also confirmed the existence of thousands of cases of chemical weapons use.
Minister Brekelmans added that at least three Ukrainian deaths have been recorded due to these substances, and more than 2,500 wounded on the battlefield are showing symptoms of poisoning. He also warned that the danger extends beyond Ukraine and poses a threat to other countries.
“It is necessary to increase international pressure on Russia, including considering new sanctions and banning its participation in the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW),” Brekelmans said.
Risenk clarified that the Russian military uses improvised munitions — light bulbs and bottles filled with chloropicrin that are hung under drones. They also use modified tear gas. According to him, these are not isolated cases, but in fact standard operating procedure.
The United States first publicly accused Russia of using chloropicrin in May 2024. Moscow denies all charges, blaming Ukraine.
It is worth noting that chloropicrin is a potent chemical warfare agent that causes severe irritation of the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin, and if ingested can lead to burns and respiratory distress.
Dutch intelligence, together with international partners, has also recorded an increase in Russia’s scientific research and production of chemical weapons, as well as training the military in their use on the battlefield.
We will remind, the press service of the operational brigade “RUBIZH” stated that the Russian occupation army is using chemical weapons in the Seversk direction.
As reported, the Russian occupiers are systematically using banned chemical substances on the front. In particular, they are “smoking” Ukrainian soldiers out of shelters.
By the way, the United Kingdom has imposed new sanctions against Russian troops involved in the use of chemical weapons on the battlefield in Ukraine.
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