Novichok is a group of highly toxic nerve agents developed in the Soviet Union during the late 20th century. These chemical weapons are designed to disrupt the normal functioning of the nervous system, leading to severe health effects or death. Novichok agents are known for their potency and can be lethal in very small amounts. The use of Novichok gained international attention in 2018 when it was implicated in the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England. This incident raised concerns about chemical warfare and the potential for these agents to be used in espionage or terrorist activities.