In a stunning revelation, a UK inquiry finds that Putin must have authorized the Novichok poisoning in Salisbury, igniting international debate.
Story Highlights
- A UK inquiry suggests President Putin authorized the 2018 Salisbury Novichok attack.
- The investigation relies heavily on intelligence assessments rather than public proof.
- The case has strained UK-Russia relations and sparked global discussions on accountability.
- Experts debate the extent of Putin’s direct involvement in the operation.
UK Inquiry Suggests Putin’s Authorization in Novichok Attack
The recent UK inquiry has brought to light that President Vladimir Putin may have authorized the 2018 Salisbury Novichok attack. This assertion stems from intelligence assessments and ongoing investigations rather than concrete public documentation. The attack involved the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, which led to widespread condemnation and diplomatic tensions.
The inquiry highlights that the use of a military-grade nerve agent like Novichok, allegedly developed during the Soviet era, would likely require approval from the highest echelons of the Russian state. This revelation has intensified scrutiny over Russia’s role in state-sponsored assassinations and its subsequent denial of involvement.
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Implications for International Relations and Security
The findings of this inquiry have further strained UK-Russia relations, leading to diplomatic expulsions and increased sanctions against Russia. The use of chemical weapons, especially in a civilian area like Salisbury, has alarmed the international community, raising concerns over the enforcement of global norms against chemical warfare.
Moreover, this incident has reignited debates on the effectiveness of international mechanisms to hold states accountable for such aggressive actions. NATO and EU partners have been closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for a unified response to deter future incidents.
Putin Must Have Authorized Novichok Poisoning in Salisbury, UK Inquiry Finds https://t.co/vqIvLEV3z8
— Manuco (@manuco22) December 4, 2025
Expert Opinions and Unanswered Questions
Experts remain divided on Putin’s direct involvement in the Salisbury attack. While some argue that such an operation requires high-level state authorization, others urge caution, noting the lack of explicit evidence linking Putin directly to the decision. This inquiry underscores the challenges of attributing state responsibility in covert operations, where intelligence and probability judgments often play a significant role.
As the inquiry progresses, the international community continues to demand transparency and accountability, pressing for detailed evidence and conclusive findings. The complexity of the case highlights the ongoing struggle between intelligence-based assessments and public documentary proof in international security affairs.
Sources:
The Salisbury Poisonings: A Timeline of the Real Events
Salisbury Timeline: Novichok Attack Suspects
Dawn Sturgess Independent Inquiry
Poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal
