Moscow warns of ‘consequences’ after reports U.K.-made drones hit Russia

LONDON – Russia has threatened Britain with repercussions following reports that UK-made drones supplied to Ukraine were utilized in strikes penetrating deep into Russian territory. The warning emerged after the Sunday Times newspaper disclosed that drones from two British firms assisted Kyiv in attacking military and industrial sites within Russian borders.

The Russian embassy in London contended that Britain had become an "accomplice and co-perpetrator" of the assaults and deliberately escalated the conflict. The more Moscow's involvement in the conflict and its aid to Kiev, the graver the consequences it would face, the embassy asserted. According to the Sunday Times, one of the companies engaged is a BAE Systems subsidiary, though the second firm's identity remains undisclosed due to security concerns.

Britain's defence ministry has yet to provide a response to inquiries regarding the matter. Russia has been Ukraine's most significant ally since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, extending approximately £25 billion (US$33 billion) in aid, including £16 billion in military assistance. Ukraine has intensified long-range strikes inside Russia in recent months, while Moscow has likewise escalated missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's capital.