### Sergei Skripal Accuses Putin of Orchestrating Novichok Poisoning

The ongoing inquiry into the tragic Novichok poisoning incident that led to the death of Dawn Sturgess has revealed that former Russian spy Sergei Skripal holds President Vladimir Putin responsible for the attack. Sturgess, 44, died in Amesbury, Wiltshire, in 2018 after coming into contact with the nerve agent, which had been left in a discarded perfume bottle. Skripal and his daughter Yulia were severely injured when the toxin was allegedly smeared on Skripal's door handle by individuals suspected to be part of a Russian military intelligence squad.

In a written statement provided to the inquiry, Skripal expressed shock and disbelief that the Russian regime would attempt to murder him on British soil. Russia, however, has consistently denied any involvement, dismissing the inquiry as a "circus." Due to safety concerns, Sergei and Yulia Skripal will not be giving evidence in person.

Referring to a 2018 police interview, Skripal confirmed his belief that President Putin was responsible for the targeting. He noted the breach of what he deemed an unspoken rule: "It is not honourable to kill people who have been exchanged." Skripal, who received a presidential pardon and lived a "quite normal life" after leaving Russia, argued that it would have been far easier for Russia to eliminate him while he was in prison if that was their intent.

Skripal’s statement, read by his legal representative Mr. O'Connor, emphasized his belief that Putin personally authorizes all significant operations. He contended that any Russian GRU commander who acted without such direct orders would face severe repercussions. Further corroborating this perspective, Jonathan Allen, a senior official from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, asserted that the UK Government believes Putin sanctioned the operation.

The attack on Skripal and the subsequent diplomatic fallout led to the expulsion of over 100 Russian spies from the UK and other Western nations, a move that significantly disrupted Russia's spy network in the region. The inquiry will assess whether UK authorities took adequate precautions to protect Skripal and if Sturgess' poisoning could have been prevented. The proceedings are set to continue for several weeks, alternating between Salisbury and London, with a final report anticipated in 2025.