G7 Leaders Warn Russia Against Using Chemical, Biological or Nuclear Weapon

In a joint statement on Thursday, G7 leaders warned Russia against using chemical, biological or nuclear weapons in the invasion of Ukraine.

“We warn against any threat of the use of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons or related materials,” the leaders wrote after a meeting in Brussels.

They also denounced Russia’s attempts at disinformation, suggesting that Ukraine was preparing to use a chemical or nuclear weapon.

“We categorically denounce Russia’s malicious and completely baseless disinformation campaign against Ukraine, a state in full compliance with international non-proliferation agreements. We express concern for other countries and actors who have amplified Russia’s disinformation campaign,” the leaders wrote.

Without specifically mentioning China, the leaders alluded to Beijing’s consideration of providing military or financial assistance to Russia.

“We will continue to cooperate closely, including involving other governments in adopting restrictive measures similar to those already imposed by G7 members and refraining from circumvention, evasion and fulfillment that seek to eliminate or mitigate the effects of our sanctions,” the leaders wrote.

The G7 said: “We are concerned about the increasing and reinforced repression against the Russian people and the increasingly hostile rhetoric of the Russian leadership, including against ordinary citizens.”

And without taking an explicit position on Russia’s participation in the G20, the leaders said that “international organizations and multilateral forums should no longer conduct their activities with Russia in a normal way.”