BBC: Nerve Agent Attack in Britain

The British Foreign Office summoned Russia’s ambassador to explain the death of a former spy with the military-grade nerve agent Novichok, a chemical weapon developed by the former Soviet Union. Sergei Skripal and his daughter were found ill on a bench in the city of Salisbury, population of 45,000. A police officer also fell ill. Prime Minister Theresa May expects a credible response from Russia before Wednesday or the United Kingdom will conclude “unlawful use of force” by Moscow. A Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman described May’s comments as a “circus show” and “provocation.” May expressed concern about Russia targeting defectors and critics, and British people are concerned, too. “Skripal was convicted by the Russian government of passing secrets to MI6 in 2004, but given refuge in the UK in 2010 as part of a ‘spy swap,’” reports BBC News. A hazardous-materials team sealed off a restaurant, pub, cemetery section and parking area for an investigation, and more than 500 fellow diners were told to take precautions by washing their clothes and possessions. – YaleGlobal