This decision follows findings by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in November 2024 and February 2025. The OPCW confirmed the presence of riot control agents, including chemical CS (2-Chlorobenzalmalononitrile), in samples collected from frontlines in Ukraine.
These substances were used by Russian forces as a method of warfare, breaching the Chemical Weapons Convention, to which Russia is a State Party. Russia has not provided a credible explanation regarding its reported use of such agents.
“In light of the seriousness of the situation and to enhance the global norm against the use of chemical weapons,” the Council stated, “the EU calls for a timely attribution by the OPCW of the proven use of riot control agents as a method of warfare.” The EU’s response reflects ongoing concern over violations of international chemical weapons law.
With these new measures, the EU’s sanctions regime against chemical weapons now covers 25 individuals and six entities. Listed persons and entities are subject to asset freezes, bans on financial support, and, in the case of individuals, travel bans within the EU.
Source: Council of the European Union (press release).
