"Taking Ukraine as example, we see the dual purpose of these programs and their actual focus on the development of biological weapons components, which is a direct violation of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention," Shoigu said at the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization) Defence Ministers' Meeting taking place in New Delhi, TASS reported.

According to him, US military-biological activities are of particular concern.

"We have repeatedly conveyed our concerns to the world community and noted that the Pentagon's implementation of military-biological programs on its territory and beyond it poses a serious threat to other states and entire regions," Shoigu said.

At the same time, he noted that part of the US’ strategy in the sphere of biological security was the transfer of the most dangerous research to third countries.

"All these activities continue, including due to the inarticulate reaction of some states, which are afraid of confrontation with the American authorities," the Russian defense chief said.

He also noted that in light of these circumstances, Russian specialists will continue to closely monitor Washington's plans and share information about emerging biological threats.

Weapons transferred to Ukraine end up in the hands of terrorists, which affects the stability and security of Europe and the world as a whole, Shoigu added. 

"The weapons that are being supplied [to Ukraine] end up on the black market and later fall into into the hands of terrorist organizations, which poses additional risks, especially in view of the allegations of supplies of depleted uranium ammunition to Ukraine," Shoigu said.

According to him, "arms deliveries to Kiev only prolong the conflict, lead to new victims and destruction of infrastructure, and eventually boomerang back, affecting the stability in Europe and the world as a whole."

The combat potential and capabilities of practically all NATO countries have been engaged against Russia since the onset of its special military operation in Ukraine, he added. 

"The West has demonstrated its advance planning for a standoff with the Russian Federation. Large-scale sanctions were immediately introduced against Russia, arms supplies to Ukraine, the provision of intelligence, the deployment of military advisors and mercenaries to the combat zone were organized," Shoigu said.

"Thus, the military potential and capabilities of practically all NATO countries were engaged," he stated.

Western attempts to influence Russia's partners to isolate it and compromise its leadership are failing, Shoigu said.

"Against the background of the special military operation, attempts to influence Russia's partners in order to isolate it continue. A large-scale information campaign has been launched to compromise the Russian leadership and its policies. An uncompromising willingness to increase comprehensive pressure is being demonstrated without regard to the current damage to its economic and political interests," he added. 

"However," he pointed out, "all these attempts are failing."

In this regard, the defense chief thanked to SCO member states for their principled position and support.

"The independent course of the organization in solving regional and global security problems is an example for the whole world," Shoigu emphasized.