MFA of Ukraine Statement on alleged use of chemical weapons in Syria

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine is deeply concerned over reports of alleged chemical weapons attack in the Khan Shayhun area of Southern Idlib in Syria on 4 April 2017, which resulted in massive civilian casualties.

Ukraine reiterates its unequivocal position that the use of chemical weapons by anyone, anywhere and under any circumstances is a blatant violation of international law and must be strongly condemned. Those responsible for such acts must be held accountable.

While unreservedly condemning the use of chemical weapons, we are looking forward to results of the investigation which is being conducted by the OPCW’s Fact Finding Mission.

In the situation of increasing challenges and threats to the international peace and security, the full implementation and strengthening of the WMD non-proliferation regime and prohibition of its certain types should remain a key priority for the international community. We consistently advocate strict adherence to the provisions of key international instruments in this field, including the 1993 Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction (CWC) and the 1925 Geneva Protocol on the Prohibition of the Use in War of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or other Gases, where Ukraine is a State Party.

As a current non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, Ukraine supports the need to take further measures by the Council under Chapter VII of the UN Charter in response to the violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention and UNSC resolution 2118 (2013).