The Ministry of Defence has confirmed its ongoing support for Ukraine in response to allegations of Russia’s use of chemical weapons in the conflict.
In a written question from Mark Francois, Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, concerns were raised about the implications of these reports for UK defence policies.
Luke Pollard, Armed Forces Minister, stated: “The Ministry of Defence continues to assess and monitor the evolving threat picture in Ukraine, including illegal Russian use of chemicals as a method of warfare.”
Pollard highlighted Russia’s public admission of employing Riot Control Agents (RCAs) on the battlefield, alongside multiple reports of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin being used.
He further noted: “In December last year, a Technical Report confirming the use of Riot Control Agents in Ukraine was published by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).”
The UK has played a big role in enhancing Ukraine’s defence against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. Pollard detailed the UK’s actions: “The UK has been at the forefront of international support and assistance to Ukraine and has previously provided respirators and decontamination kits to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.”
In December 2024, following a direct request from Ukraine, the UK announced an additional assistance package. This included funding for respirators and other protective equipment, procured jointly with international partners through the G7-led Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons of Mass Destruction.
The UK remains committed to countering CBRN threats in Ukraine, working closely with international partners in bilateral and multilateral forums. Pollard reaffirmed: “Our commitment to Ukraine is unwavering, and we continue to work closely with our international partners to coordinate counter-CBRN support and assistance.”
It was only recently (when General Kirillov was assassinated in Moscow) that I heard about the very many CW attacks by Russia on Ukraine. Is this all true? Why has the MSM not picked up on it or our wonderful politicians ‘called it out’?
I don’t know, I only heard it at the same time.