British Inquiry Links Putin to Novichok Poisoning Death

The UK public inquiry into the Novichok poisoning incident involving former Russian spy Sergei Skripal has found that President Vladimir Putin is "morally responsible" for the incident, which also led to the death of an innocent woman. The inquiry report emphasizes the risks posed not just to target individuals, but also to the broader public.

Why It Matters

This inquiry exposes the complexities of international espionage and the lethal impacts of state-sponsored actions. As the geopolitical tensions between the UK and Russia continue to escalate, the findings serve as a significant reminder of the risks associated with such aggressive tactics, raising questions about accountability at the highest levels of government.

Key Developments

Findings of the Inquiry: Lord Hughes, head of the inquiry, determined that the operation to assassinate Skripal was directed by Putin himself. He noted that those involved, including the agents on the ground, share moral accountability for the death of Dawn Sturgess.
Background of Sergei Skripal: Skripal, a former member of Russian military intelligence, was granted asylum in the UK after being sentenced for espionage in 2006.
Victims of the Attack: Alongside Skripal, his daughter Yulia and a police officer were poisoned but survived. Sturgess, however, was fatally poisoned after coming into contact with the nerve agent via a contaminated perfume bottle.
Response from UK Officials: Following the report’s release, sanctions were placed on the GRU (Russian military intelligence), and the Russian ambassador was called in for an explanation regarding ongoing hostilities against the UK.

Full Report

Operation and Execution

The report highlights that GRU agents used a toxic nerve agent, Novichok, brought from Moscow to the UK, applying it to Skripal’s front door in Salisbury. The inquiry found that this attack was reckless, endangering countless civilians. The drug was later found in Amesbury by Sturgess, leading to her death on July 8, 2018.

Medical Response and Critique

Lord Hughes acknowledged the medical care provided to Sturgess. He stated it was appropriate but ultimately inadequate given the nature of her injuries, which were deemed unsurvivable early on.

Public Safety and Risk Management

The inquiry scrutinized the UK’s risk assessment strategies regarding Skripal’s safety. While it concluded that authorities did not anticipate a significant threat against him, it noted failures in conducting regular risk evaluations. Public warnings about picking up foreign objects were deemed unnecessary at the time, to avoid creating widespread panic.

Family Reactions

Stanley Sturgess, the victim’s father, expressed a mixed sense of closure and distress. The family felt vindicated by the findings regarding the mishandling of Sturgess’s case but voiced concerns over the absence of actionable recommendations in the report.

Context & Previous Events

The incident in Salisbury occurred on March 4, 2018, when Sergei Skripal and his daughter were initially poisoned. The broader historical backdrop includes Skripal’s prior conviction for espionage and subsequent release as part of a prisoner exchange in 2010. Russia has contested all findings of wrongdoing, suggesting alternative narratives regarding the incidents.