**UK Imposes Sanctions on Russian Officials and Organization for Chemical Weapons Use in Ukraine**
The United Kingdom has taken a strong stance against Russia’s use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. On July 7, the British government announced new sanctions on individuals and an organization involved in the transfer and use of these banned agents.
**Targeting Key Figures and a Research Institute**
The updated list of sanctioned entities includes Lieutenant General Alexei Rtishchev, head of Russia’s Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defense Troops, and his deputy, Andrei Marchenko. Both men are accused of supporting or promoting prohibited activity related to chemical weapons. The Scientific Research Institute of Applied Chemistry is also on the list for providing Russian troops with handheld chemical grenades used against Ukrainian forces.
**Escalating Concern Over Russia’s Chemical Warfare**
These new sanctions come amid growing international concern over Russia’s increasing use of banned chemical agents in its war against Ukraine. Just days ago, the Netherlands Military Intelligence and Security Service reported that Russian troops are increasingly using chemical weapons, including chloropicrin, a highly toxic agent banned under international law.
**Consequences of Russia’s Actions**
The use of these substances has serious consequences for Ukrainian soldiers. According to reports, at least three soldiers have died from direct exposure, while others have been left exposed to further drone or artillery strikes after being flushed out of trenches by chloropicrin dropped by drones. Ukraine claims that over 9,000 chemical attacks have taken place since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.
**Commentary**
The UK’s decision to impose sanctions on Russian officials and an organization for their role in the use and transfer of chemical weapons is a crucial step towards holding Russia accountable for its actions. It sends a strong message that the international community will not tolerate such egregious breaches of humanitarian law. As tensions continue to escalate, it’s essential that more countries follow suit and condemn Russia’s actions.
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