Sergei Skripal: A Study of the Covert Operation to Assassinate the Russian Double Agent

Abstract

Intelligence collection still remains one of the fundamental purposes of the intelligence agencies, which sometimes lead them to get involved in insurgency as a part of their counterinsurgent acts covertly or overtly. Covert operation leading to double agent Sergei Skripal, the Russian double agent who formerly worked for MI6, was such a person whose life along with his daughter was at risk, as they were alleged to be poisoned by Novichok agents. While analysing covert operation in general, this study aims at describing the attack on Skripal, as well as investigating into the fact and present with relevant information regarding the attack. Online-based resources have been used for gathering necessary information on the Skripal attack, and the perception claims made by the disparate authorities have been analysed to reach for the final conclusion. This paper concludes that the Novichok attack was particularly aimed at Skripal in Salisbury, which brought the question of Russian involvement. As it is denied from the beginning by Russia, the UK brought the allegation in their parliament blaming it as use of force by Russia which is a clear violation of the UN Charter.