Russia has warned that it may target British military sites in Ukraine and elsewhere in response to Ukrainian attacks inside Russia using British cruise missiles. Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated this warning with greater urgency than before, saying that the UK was close to being seen as complicit in what Russia calls “terrorism” against its civilians. She mentioned the use of Franco-British missiles by Ukraine to attack Russian targets, emphasizing that Britain’s actions could have severe consequences.
Zakharova asserted that Russian military installations and equipment in Ukraine and beyond could be targeted should UK weapons continue to support Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory. She urged British leaders to reconsider their aggressive stance, warning it could lead to a significant escalation of the conflict. The UK had not immediately responded but has previously ignored similar warnings, maintaining its commitment to support Ukraine.
Western analysts noted that Russia’s strong warning stems from Britain’s recent decision to provide Kyiv with access to technology for producing advanced Storm Shadow missiles. Zakharova also indicated that France could face similar consequences for supplying missile technology to Ukraine, stating that both countries were risking unpredictable outcomes.
She criticized British Prime Minister Andy Burnham for his escalatory approach and highlighted an accusation that Ukraine used British missiles to attack civilian areas in Donetsk, although this claim was not independently verified. Both sides deny intentionally targeting civilians, although thousands have died since the conflict began in 2022, with more Ukrainian civilian casualties reported.
With information from Reuters
