Russia Cautions Britain Over Supplying Drones Used in Strikes on Russian Targets
Russia Issues Warning to Britain Regarding Drone Supplies to Ukraine
Background of the Warning
LONDON, Aug 18 (Reuters) - Russia warned Britain on Tuesday it would face consequences for supplying drones to Ukraine which are used to attack targets on Russian territory.
Russia's embassy in London was responding to a report in the Times newspaper on Saturday which said British-made drones had been used for long-range strikes against Russia for the first time.
Embassy Statement
"London's actions will inevitably carry consequences for which it will have to answer," the embassy said in a statement posted on its Telegram channel.
"The deeper its involvement in the conflict and the greater its support for Kiev's terrorist machinery, the higher the price it will pay."
Ukraine's Use of Drones
Ukraine has been using deep-strike drones to hit oil refineries and logistics facilities.
Britain's Response and Drone Supply
Britain's Ministry of Defence did not confirm whether British drones had been used.
In June, Britain said it would provide 150,000 drones to Ukraine by the end of 2026 as part of a £752 million ($996 million) funding package.
Defence Ministry Statement
Asked about the Russian embassy comments, a defence ministry spokesperson said: "Britain stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and we are committed to providing the equipment Ukraine needs to defend itself against Putin's illegal invasion."
Broader Context and Consequences
Since the start of Russia's war against Ukraine in 2022, Moscow has repeatedly warned Britain and other Western allies that their support for Kyiv, including the supply of equipment, could provoke retaliatory measures and increase the risk of a broader confrontation.
(Reporting by William James, editing by Elizabeth Piper)
