The reported poisoning of a British couple with a substance developed by Russia is “disturbing,” according to a spokesman for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
But the spokesman said Russia has so far seen no evidence from the U.K. that the agent novichok was used, and indicated Russia isn’t sure media reports are correct.
“This is very disturbing news,” spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, according to Tass, Russia’s state-owned news agency.
“[W]e have no information on what substances were actually used and how they were used, because here it is very difficult to rely on any media reports,” he added.
Reports out of the U.K. on Thursday said Dawn Sturgess and Charlie Rowley were admitted to a hospital, where it was assessed that they were suffering from exposure to novichok.
British officials have blamed Russia for the first novichok attack against former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter. U.K. Security Minister Ben Wallace told the Guardian that he believes Russia was likely behind the first attack, and should help the U.K. deal with this second attack.
“The Russian state could put this wrong right,” Wallace said. “They could tell us what happened, what they did and fill in some of the significant gaps we are trying to pursue. We have said they can come and tell us what happened. I’m waiting for the phone call from the Russian state. The offer is there.”
Peskov said Russia has denied any involvement in the first incident, and said Russia offered to help U.K. officials then, but never heard a reply to that offer.
“Of course, it triggers profound concern in connection with the similar incidents in the U.K.,” Peskov said in response to reports of a second attack. “We wish them a speedy recovery.”
