Chemical Weapons Use in Ukraine: A Growing Concern
A senior Ukrainian military official has reported a troubling trend in the ongoing conflict with Russia, revealing that the extensive use of chemical weapons has led to more than 2,000 hospitalizations among Ukrainian troops since the war began in February 2022. Colonel Artem Vlasiuk, representing Kyiv’s Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection Command, shared these alarming statistics during a recent press briefing. He noted that a staggering 4,800 incidents related to chemical weapon usage have been documented against Ukrainian forces, with various irritants like CS and CN gas being employed.
Vlasiuk further detailed that the situation has resulted in three confirmed fatalities attributed to acute poisoning from unknown chemical agents. He stressed that Russian forces have become increasingly adept at masking their chemical attacks, often disguising them as regular artillery fire to evade accountability and prosecution.
International Response to Chemical Weapon Use
The colonel’s statements coincide with findings from the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which has confirmed the deployment of toxic chemicals as weapons during the conflict. Reports indicate that Russian drones have been used to drop gas grenades into Ukrainian trenches, compelling soldiers to expose themselves to enemy fire. Among the chemical weapons noted in these attacks are K-51 and RG-VO gas grenades. However, Vlasiuk mentioned that the effectiveness of these weapons has diminished in colder weather conditions.
In response to these developments, Colonel Vlasiuk emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to international law concerning chemical weapons. Following a joint declaration among 59 nations, Ukraine has reaffirmed its adherence to the global ban on such munitions. “As a signatory of the Chemical Weapons Convention, Ukraine and its armed forces fully comply with international law and the prohibition on chemical weapons,” he stated.
Assassination of Russian General Linked to Chemical Attacks
In an unexpected turn of events, Ukrainian officials have claimed responsibility for the assassination of Russian General Igor Kirillov, who is alleged to have orchestrated the use of chemical weapons against Ukraine. Kirillov, aged 54, was killed when a remotely-detonated explosive device attached to a parked scooter detonated as he exited a residential building. The blast also claimed the life of his assistant.
A source from Ukraine’s security service remarked, “Kirillov was a war criminal and a legitimate target, given his orders to deploy prohibited chemical weapons against Ukrainian soldiers. Such an inglorious end awaits all those who perpetrate violence against Ukrainians. Retribution for war crimes is inevitable!” This incident underscores the escalating tensions and the lengths to which both sides are willing to go amid the ongoing conflict.
