Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelenskyy Warns Russia Could Use Chemical Weapons, Urges West For Strict Sanctions
Confirming that the United States was aware of the possible use of chemical weapons by the Russian military, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said it will continue to monitor the situation closely.
New Delhi: With Russia changing its strategy in Ukraine and focusing in east, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned on Monday that Russia could use chemical weapons urging the West to impose stricter sanctions on Moscow to prevent talks about using such weapons.
Ukrainian MP Ivanna Klympush on Monday tweeted that an "unknown substance" has been used in the southern city of Mariupol, which is causing respiratory failure and movement disorders.
2/2 This morning #Russians threatened to use “chemical troops” against Mariupol’s defenders. Now #Azov reports #RU did it. #Russia will not stop until it is stopped!
— Ivanna Klympush (@IKlympush) April 11, 2022
Petro Andryushchenko, an aide to the mayor of Mariupol, wrote on his Telegram channel that a chemical attack had not been confirmed and that he expected to provide details and clarifications later. In a video address on Monday night, Zelenskyy said, "We treat this with the utmost seriousness." However, he did not confirm that chemical weapons had already been used.
“I would like to remind world leaders that the possible use of chemical weapons by the Russian military has already been discussed. And already at that time it meant that it was necessary to react to the Russian aggression much harsher and faster,” he said according to Reuters
US monitoring reports of chemical usage
The US is working urgently to confirm the reports that Russia has used chemical weapons. Confirming that the United States was aware of the reports, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said, "We cannot confirm at this time and will continue to monitor the situation closely.These reports, if true, are deeply concerning and reflective of concerns that we have had about Russia's potential to use a variety of riot control agents, including tear gas mixed with chemical agents, in Ukraine."
The focus of Russia has now shifted to the east of Ukraine after thousands and millions displaced since its invasion in February 24. The European Union said on Monday that more sanction on Russia are an option.
"It is time to make this package in such a way that we would not hear even words about weapons of mass destruction from the Russian side," Zelenskyy said. "An oil embargo against Russia is a must. Any new package of sanctions against Russia that does not affect oil will be received in Moscow with a smile."
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