Russian Forces Used Chemical Munitions Nearly 400 Times in March, Ukrainian Support Forces Report

In March 2026, Russian military forces employed munitions containing dangerous chemical substances nearly 400 times. This alarming statistic was revealed by Colonel Maksym Kravchuk, the head of communications for the Ukrainian Armed Forces Support Command, highlighting the severity of the situation.

According to the information provided, the adversary has been using K-51 and RG-V chemical gas grenades, as well as homemade containers filled with CS and CN agents. The primary method of delivery for these hazardous materials is through drops from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Such actions are typically directed at the positions of Ukraine's Defense Forces with the intent to force personnel out of their shelters, thereby granting the enemy a tactical advantage in areas where their main efforts are concentrated.

Units specializing in radiation, chemical, and biological protection within the Ukrainian Support Forces are actively documenting instances of hazardous chemical substance usage. Samples collected from the field are sent for forensic analysis, which allows for the documentation and confirmation of chemical weapon usage. The highest intensity of such munitions' application was recorded in April 2025, with 894 instances documented.

It is important to note that, according to the Chemical Weapons Convention, the use of such substances as a means of warfare is prohibited. CS and CN agents may only be used by law enforcement agencies for crowd control under strict limitations. Their application in combat scenarios is illegal and subject to international condemnation.

Although these substances are not classified as lethal chemical agents, they still pose a significant threat. They can cause severe irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract, leading to tearing, coughing, shortness of breath, disorientation, and temporary incapacitation. In some cases, symptoms may indicate the use of other chemical irritants or unclassified mixtures, further complicating the situation.

Analysis of the trends indicates an increase in the intensity of such dangerous substances' usage during the spring and summer months. In 2024, the peak usage occurred in May and June, with over 700 and 600 instances reported, respectively. The situation repeated itself in 2025, with more than 800 cases in May and 700 in June. Given this trend, a further increase in the number of such attacks is anticipated in the future.

In light of this, military personnel are strongly advised not to neglect personal protective equipment, particularly gas masks, which are essential for respiratory protection. This is especially critical in conditions where the threat of chemical weapon usage is on the rise.

As reported by Ukrinform, in February 2026, there were also nearly 400 instances of Russian troops employing special munitions filled with irritant chemical substances. This information underscores the seriousness of the situation at the front and the urgent need for measures to protect personnel.

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