The US has accused Russia of using chemical weapons, including poison gas, ‘as a method of warfare’ against Ukrainian forces. Chloropicrin, recognised as a ‘choking agent’, had been extensively utilised during World War I and is no longer authorised for military use A Ukrainian serviceman takes part in radiation, chemical and biological hazard drills in Kharkiv, Ukraine in February. Reuters
The United States has accused Russia of deploying banned choking gas Chloropicrin to expel Ukrainian troops, coinciding with its most significant advancement in the Eastern European nation since its “military operation” in Ukraine. The US Department of State asserted that Russia utilised the riot control agent, also known as nitrochloroform, to dislodge Ukrainian soldiers “from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield.”
The US emphasised that the use of Chloropicrin is not an “isolated” incident, contending that Russia’s actions are in violation of the 1993 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), of which Russia is a signatory. Moscow has rebuffed the allegations , labelling them as baseless and denying the deployment of the chemical substance.
What is Chloropicrin?
Chloropicrin, primarily utilised as an insecticide, found a more sinister application as a weapon during World War I. This oily substance was among the various gases employed to injure and asphyxiate entrenched soldiers. According to the CDC, it appears: “Colourless to faintly yellow oily liquid.”
Functioning as a toxic irritant, Chloropicrin induces tearing and burning sensations in the eyes and skin, while also impacting the respiratory system. Inhalation of significant quantities may result in symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Chloropicrin is listed as a banned choking agent by the Hague-based Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which was created to implement and monitor compliance with the 1993 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
Also Read : US to send Patriot missiles to Ukraine: How will these help the war-torn nation?
On the frontline, grenades containing CS and CN gases have reportedly been deployed, compelling troops entrenched in trenches to either brave enemy fire by fleeing or face the peril of suffocation, reported Sky News . According to the Ukrainian military, a minimum of 500 […]
What is Chloropicrin, the chemical agent Russia has allegedly used in the Ukraine war?
