Russia has issued a warning to the United Kingdom regarding possible "consequences" after reports emerged that Ukrainian forces had for the first time used unmanned aerial vehicles manufactured by British companies in strikes against targets on Russian territory.
The Russian embassy in London stated that the information confirms, according to Moscow, the British side's intention to escalate tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine.
"London's actions will inevitably have consequences, for which the British government will have to answer," the diplomatic mission pointed out. The embassy added that the deeper the UK's involvement in the conflict, the higher the price it believes the country will pay.
The response from the British Ministry of Defence
The British Ministry of Defence replied that London remains a firm supporter of Kyiv in its defense against the Russian invasion.
"The UK stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Kyiv, and we are determined to provide the equipment that Ukraine needs to defend itself against Putin's illegal invasion," the department stated.
Drones in strikes deep inside Russia
According to a report by the "Sunday Times," unmanned vehicles produced by two British companies have been used by Ukraine in attacks against military and industrial facilities on Russian territory. Among the cited targets are oil refineries and storage bases.
The Ukrainian strategy of using drones for strikes in the Russian rear aims to limit the resources with which Moscow finances the war and to cause damage to military and economic infrastructure. According to British media, strikes with such drones have caused over £35 billion in economic damage.
In June, London announced its intention to provide Ukraine with 150,000 drones by the end of 2026 as part of a £752 million funding package. This includes various categories of unmanned systems designed to support Ukraine's defensive capabilities.