West backs UK over alleged poisoning

WASHINGTON - Major Western nations on Thursday expressed firm support for the United Kingdom's accusations against Russia over the alleged poisoning of an ex-spy and his daughter, despite the denial of any involvement from Moscow.

According to a statement issued by the US State Department, leaders of France, Germany, the United States, Canada and the UK reiterated their outrage "at the use of a chemical nerve agent, known as Novichok, in Salisbury" on March 4.

"We welcome the progress made in the investigation into the poisoning of Sergei (Skripal) and Yulia Skripal, and take note of the attempted murder charges brought yesterday against two suspects," they said.