Fact Check: "Russia is using chemical weapons in Ukraine."
What We Know
Recent reports from Dutch and German intelligence agencies indicate that Russia is indeed increasing its use of prohibited chemical weapons in Ukraine. Specifically, the intelligence findings highlight the use of chloropicrin, a chemical weapon originally developed during World War I, and CS gas, a riot control agent. These reports suggest that the Russian military has made the use of these chemical agents "standardized and commonplace" in its operations against Ukrainian forces (AP News, CBS News). Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans has called for increased sanctions against Russia, emphasizing that the normalization of chemical weapons use poses a significant threat not only to Ukraine but also to Europe and the world (Reuters).
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has documented several incidents involving CS gas in Ukraine, although it has not conducted a full investigation due to the need for member states to request such actions (AP News). Reports indicate that Ukraine has alleged around 9,000 instances of chemical weapons use by Russia since the onset of the full-scale invasion in 2022 (CBS News).
Analysis
The claims regarding Russia's use of chemical weapons are supported by credible intelligence reports from Dutch and German agencies. These agencies have stated that they have gathered concrete evidence of the use of chemical agents, including chloropicrin, in military operations against Ukrainian forces. The reports describe a systematic approach to chemical warfare, suggesting that it is not merely incidental but part of a larger strategy (Reuters, The Moscow Times).
However, it is essential to note that independent verification of these claims remains challenging. While the intelligence agencies assert their findings are based on independent investigations, the situation on the ground is complex, and both sides have accused each other of using chemical weapons. The OPCW has described initial accusations from both Ukraine and Russia as "insufficiently substantiated," indicating a need for further investigation (AP News, Reuters).
Despite the challenges in verification, the consistent reports from multiple intelligence sources and the call for sanctions from government officials lend credibility to the claim that Russia is using chemical weapons in Ukraine.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The evidence from Dutch and German intelligence agencies, along with corroborating statements from Ukrainian officials, supports the claim that Russia is using chemical weapons in Ukraine. The findings indicate a troubling trend of normalization of chemical warfare tactics by Russian forces, which poses significant risks not only to Ukrainian soldiers but also to broader regional stability.
Sources
- Russian use of chemical weapons against Ukraine 'widespread,' Dutch defense minister
- Ukraine urges investigation into alleged Russian chemical weapons use
- Dutch intelligence agencies say Russia increasing use of prohibited chemical weapons
- Russia accused of increased use of chemical weapons in Ukraine
- Russia ramps up use of banned chemical weapons in Ukraine
- Russia further intensifies its use of chemical weapons in Ukraine
- Dutch and German Intelligence Say Russia Increasingly Uses Chemical Weapons in Ukraine
- Ukraine war briefing: US to resume shipments of weapons
