Chemical Smuggling Bust: Spain Stops Russia-Bound Shipment

Police in Spain have uncovered a major smuggling operation, seizing 13 tons of banned chemicals. These chemicals, which could be used to make chemical weapons, were headed to Russia. The operation took place despite the sanctions put in place due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Four suspected criminals, likely of Russian origin, were arrested in nearby villages. Authorities believe these individuals were part of a crime ring aiming to bypass sanctions using a shell company. The company had set up a complex network to export these chemicals to Russia through various countries, including Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. The chemicals were found in a container at Barcelona’s port. The EU, US, and UK have all taken steps to clamp down on similar activities, with some accusing Russia of using chemical weapons in Ukraine. Russia denies these allegations.