G7 Demands Russian Explanation for UK Poisoning

The G7, comprised of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, called on Russia to answer questions regarding its involvement in the poisoning of former double agent Sergei Skripal.

The group, which represent the seven largest advanced economies in the world, support the UK's position in blaming Russia for the attack, as they consider it yet further proof of "Russia’s meddling in another state's territory violating its sovereignty."

"We condemn Russia's refusal to answer the legitimate questions of the British government, which, once again, underscores Russia's responsibility in what happened," the G7 said in a statement.

The member states are demanding that Russia provides information on the state-run program producing the nerve-agent Novichok, which Russia keeps confidential.

"The attack with the Russian-produced poison was the first chemical incidence in Europe since World War II. This threatens not only Britain but the security of our society as a whole. Furthermore, it is an attack on the sovereignty of Great Britain, potentially allowing future attacks on other G7 members," the statement reads.

Despite the condemnation, the statements emphasize their willingness to restore a productive dialogue with Russia in order to guarantee an international legal framework for the use of nerve-agents. Fearing additional provocation by Russia, the G7 members announced increased security measures to avoid similar attacks on their territories. 

By Benjamin Music

Photo: European Council on Foreign Relations