NATO fears Russian covert operation with chemical weapons in Ukraine

The Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Jens Stoltenberg, expressed concern about a possible chemical attack by covert Russian troops, adding that the military alliance is “very attentive” at that risk.

“We are concerned that Russia may organize a false flag operation possibly including chemical weapons”, he said at a press conference on the eve of a meeting of defense ministers of the alliance countries.

Stoltenberg quoted “absurd claims” by Russia about the possibility of Ukraine possessing biological weapons laboratories.

NATO, the official added, remains “very attentive” at the risk of a covert operation and emphasized that Russia would have “a high price to pay” in case he commits such “violation of international law”.

However, he avoided speculating about a possible military response by NATO if that happens.

The ministers’ meeting, Stoltenberg said, will discuss on Wednesday “concrete measures to strengthen our long-term security in all domains” as a way to adapt to the changing scenario of threats that arise from the “senseless war” in Ukraine.

“This could include substantially more forces in the eastern part of the alliance with greater readiness and equipment.”in addition to the reinforced NATO forces that have already been sent to the countries that are part of the alliance and border Ukraine, he added.

A long-scheduled NATO summit in Madrid in June would discuss long-term changes in the alliance.

“It is important to distinguish between immediate response, such as tens of thousands of additional troops, air and sea power, and then longer-term adjustment or posture.”, which will be discussed in June, he indicated.