European Intelligence Agencies Report Increased Chemical Weapons Use by Russia

European intelligence agencies have raised alarming concerns regarding the alleged escalation of chemical weapons usage by Russian forces in Ukraine, a violation of international law that could have far-reaching implications. According to reports from the Dutch Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) and Germany's Federal Intelligence Service (BND), there is substantial evidence indicating that Russia is employing banned chemical agents, including chloropicrin, against Ukrainian military personnel. This assertion was made public on July 4, 2025, as the conflict between the two nations continues to intensify.

The Dutch Defence Minister, Ruben Brekelmans, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "Chloropicrin is normalized and widespread. It is dropped by drones to drive soldiers out of trenches and then kill them." This statement highlights the tactical use of chemical agents in combat, raising ethical and legal concerns regarding Russia's military strategies.

Peter Reesink, head of the MIVD, corroborated these findings, asserting that there have been "thousands of instances" of chemical weapon use, which he described as part of a large-scale program rather than isolated incidents. The BND further confirmed that not only tear gas but also the more lethal chloropicrin is being used, violating the Chemical Weapons Convention that prohibits the employment of such agents under any circumstances.

The implications of these allegations are profound, with at least three Ukrainian deaths linked to chemical weapons, as reported by Brekelmans. Additionally, over 2,500 individuals have presented symptoms consistent with exposure to these hazardous substances. In light of these findings, Brekelmans called for more stringent sanctions against Russia and proposed that the country should be barred from participating in international bodies such as the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

However, the OPCW has previously stated that accusations of chemical weapon use by both Russia and Ukraine were "insufficiently substantiated," and it has not conducted a comprehensive investigation due to the lack of requests from member states.

On the battlefield, the allegations of chemical weapon usage coincide with reports of the largest Russian drone and missile assault on Ukraine to date. Ukrainian officials confirmed an unprecedented attack involving 539 drones and 11 missiles, resulting in injuries to at least 23 people and significant destruction of infrastructure.

The ongoing conflict has also seen both nations engaging in a prisoner exchange, an aspect of the operational dynamics that underscores the complexities of the war. Diplomatic efforts continue, albeit with limited success, as U.S. President Donald Trump expressed disappointment after discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the conflict.

The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation as the international community grapples with the ramifications of Russia's alleged chemical weapons use. As these developments unfold, the necessity for accountability and adherence to international law becomes increasingly urgent.