The Dutch defense minister called for tougher sanctions against Russia, accusing it of widespread use of chemical weapons in Ukraine.

Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans called on Friday for tougher sanctions against Russia after Dutch and German intelligence agencies confirmed the widespread use of banned chemical weapons in Ukraine. He underlined that Russia is stepping up its use of these weapons, which is becoming a normalized practice. Evidence suggests that Russia is using chloropicrin to inflict suffering on Ukrainian soldiers. Brekelmans noted that the use of chemical weapons poses a threat not only to Ukraine but also to other countries, calling for a review of international sanctions.