novichok

Novichok refers to a series of experimental nerve agents developed in the Soviet Union and Russia during the latter half of the 20th century. The term "Novichok" translates to "newcomer" in Russian. These agents were part of a secret program known as Foliant, aiming to create binary chemical weapons. Binary chemical weapons are designed so that two less toxic precursor chemicals are mixed only when deployed, making them harder to detect and handle.

The Novichok agents are organophosphorus compounds, similar in structure to other known nerve agents like Sarin and VX, but with some structural modifications. These modifications were intended to enhance their potency, stability, and ability to bypass existing detection methods. While specific details about their exact chemical structures and properties remain largely classified, their classification as extremely potent nerve agents is widely accepted by international chemical weapons experts.

Novichok agents gained international notoriety due to their alleged use in several high-profile poisoning incidents. These include the attempted assassination of Sergei Skripal, a former Russian military intelligence officer, and his daughter Yulia, in Salisbury, England, in 2018. Another notable incident was the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in August 2020, for which Germany identified Novichok as the agent used. These incidents have led to significant international condemnation and calls for accountability, as well as renewed focus on the Chemical Weapons Convention and its enforcement. The development and existence of Novichok agents raise concerns about the clandestine development of novel chemical weapons.