“Novichok” scientist: It was idiocy using it in UK

Some properties of “Novichok” agent make its application in UK climate senseless, especially on that foggy day of March 4, chemist Vil Mirzayanov, introducing himself as one of “Novichok” scientist, told Kommersant FM.

“‘Novichok’ series have a disadvantage i.e. these agents are not water-resistant. Typically, these are unstable compounds. This agent can work only in dry conditions, when humidity level is extremely low. Meantime, it was used in England on March 4 and it was a foggy day with high level of humidity in the air. Only an idiot could get such an idea – it was a big mistake,” the chemist said.

Commenting on resolutions of Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Vil Mirzayanov assumed that specialist could receive a good-quality, purified sample for analysis. “Perhaps, they synthesized it in lab, especially for that case, and did not provide an industrial sample. If the raw material was of high purity, there could be no impurities in it,” he said.

EADaily reported earlier that OPCW published the results of its analysis made at “four OPCW designated laboratories in different parts of the world”. OPCW Specialists confirmed UK government findings relating to the identity of the toxic chemical that was used in Salisbury and injured Sergei Skripal, former colonel of State Intelligence Department and his daughter Yulia.

Sergei and Yulia Skripals were poisoned in Salisbury on March 4. London claims Russia was behind the poisoning, whereas Moscow denies allegations.