On May 7, 2024, the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha held a video meeting with Director-General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons Fernando Arias.

Andrii Sybiha informed OPCW Director-General about the ratification by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of an Ad hoc Agreement between Ukraine and the Technical Secretariat of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons on Privileges and Immunities for Technical Assistance Visits.

OPCW Director-General was briefed on systemic violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention by the Russian Federation. The First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine emphasized on the use by the aggressor state of special ammunition containing toxic chemicals against Ukrainian militaries.

It was noted that the competent authorities of Ukraine are taking all necessary measures, including within pre-trial investigations in criminal proceedings to hold the responsible persons from the Russian Federation accountable.

During the meeting the Sides discussed the current status and prospects for strengthening Ukraine’s implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, including through the improvement of the national legislation in the field of chemical safety.

The Sides acknowledged that Ukraine is a reliable and responsible member of the OPCW, has an experience in the work of OPCW Executive Council, and is ready to contribute to upholding the goals and principles of the Chemical Weapons Convention, including during Ukraine’s membership in the OPCW Executive Council for 2024-2026.

Special attention during the meeting was focused on enhancing Ukraine’s institutional capacities to ensure an appropriate response to chemical threats.

Following the meeting the Sides agreed to continue active cooperation between Ukraine and OPCW Technical Secretariat to establish all facts of violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention and the use of such weapons in Ukraine.