Russia threatens UK over supplying Ukraine with drones

On August 17, Russia issued stern warnings to the United Kingdom following media reports suggesting that British drones were utilized in Kyiv's strikes within Russian territory. The Russian Embassy to the UK declared in a statement that London's actions would bring about consequences that it must face. According to The Times, which reported on August 15, Ukrainian forces have successfully employed British drones to target oil refineries near Moscow and other locations.

As the UK's primary military ally, it has provided Ukraine with unmanned systems and various other weapons. However, the UK government has not officially confirmed if British-supplied drones were utilized in attacks against Russian refineries.

In response to Russia's threats, the UK's Defense Ministry affirmed its commitment to supplying Ukraine with the equipment required to defend itself against Russian President Vladimir Putin's unlawful invasion. Prime Minister Andrew Burnham stated that his government is doing exactly what it had previously promised, which is to support Ukraine 100% against this illegal war, emphasizing that the UK will be there in Ukraine's time of need.

The Kremlin has consistently threatened retaliation against Western countries providing defense aid to Ukraine amidst its full-scale invasion. This threat emerged as Ukraine launched a significant attack, deploying over 600 drones against Moscow Oblast, according to Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin. The Wildberries, Russia's largest online retailer, was once again targeted, with Ukraine's Defense Ministry claiming that its forces had destroyed seven out of the ten largest Wildberries logistics centers.