Russian units exposed for using chemical weapons against Ukrainian forces
Illustrative photo: Russians carry out chemical attacks on the front lines (Facebook)
Russian forces are violating the laws of war by using chemical weapons in Ukraine. Journalists have identified several Russian units equipped with such weapons and deploying them against Ukraine's Armed Forces, according to an investigation by the Schemes (Skhemy) project of Radio Svoboda.
At least two motorized rifle brigades, drone detachments, and National Guard troops are reported to have chemical weapons. They are using RG-Vo gas grenades (apparently an abbreviation for "hand grenade – poisonous substance") against Ukrainian troops, in direct breach of international treaties banning chemical weapons.
In 2024, the 114th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade of Russian Ground Forces was caught dropping chemical grenades into Ukrainian military shelters. Russian state television aired related footage in May that year.
The 136th Separate Guards Motor Rifle Brigade of Russian Ground Forces, now fighting in the Vovchansk and Kupiansk directions, is also suspected of using chemical weapons. Ukraine's Security Service in Kharkiv has obtained evidence.
Ukrainian forces intercepted correspondence from spring and early summer 2025. In it, Russian soldiers from the 136th Brigade reported how many RG-Vo grenades they had used and requested new deliveries.
Photo: Intercepted Russian reports on RG-Vo grenades
Photo: Intercepted Russian reports on RG-Vo grenades
Who is supplying chemical weapons to the front
Journalists were able to identify one of the contacts: Dmitry Novichikhin. The 136th Brigade discussed chemical grenade deliveries with him.
As early as March 2022, Novichikhin was reported by Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense. At the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, he served as a Senior Radio Operator in the 136th Brigade. He now appears to have moved to a more lucrative position as a Logistics Specialist.
Another supplier is the Scientific Research Institute of Applied Chemistry, which manufactures RG-Vo grenades for the National Guard. In October 2023, these grenades were seen in a video filmed by Russian troops. Supplies can be delivered through the Central Military-Chemical Testing Ground in the Saratov region, unit 42734.
Photo: RG-Vo gas grenades filmed by Russian troops
The institute receives key components from two Russian companies that remain unsanctioned despite working with it. They provide all necessary materials for chemical weapons production.
Russians use chemical weapons on the front
The EU has already accused Russia of using CS tear gas in Ukraine as a method of warfare. In May 2025, the EU imposed sanctions on Moscow over its use of chemical weapons.
Russian forces have also deployed Shahed drones carrying toxic substances to strike Ukraine. Their goal is to harm people directly.
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has confirmed the presence of toxic agents in samples collected in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Its report studied cases of gas use near the villages of Mariivka and Illinka in 2024.
