Russia warns UK over drone supplies to Ukraine

The Russian Embassy in the UK has issued a statement accusing Britain of deliberately escalating the conflict in Ukraine, following confirmation that British-made drones were used in strikes inside Russia. The embassy said the UK was acting as an accomplice in what it called bloody crimes and terrorist attacks, warning that London's actions would carry consequences and that deeper involvement in the war would come at a higher price.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson responded by saying the UK stood "shoulder to shoulder" with Ukraine, adding that the government was resolved to stand against Russian aggression both in Ukraine and directed at the UK and its allies. The spokesperson said Britain remained committed to supplying Ukraine with the equipment it needs to defend itself against President Vladimir Putin's invasion.

Drones behind widespread strikes

The drones involved were built by two separate British companies and have been used extensively and successfully against military and industrial targets inside Russia, including fuel refineries and warehouses belonging to the online retailer Wildberries, often described as Russia's equivalent of Amazon. Ukraine has repeatedly struck the company, and says seven of its ten largest logistics centres have been put out of action.

A military source confirmed to the BBC that UK-made drones were used in these attacks, which are estimated to have caused more than £35bn in economic damage to Russia.

Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said drones using UK components and configurations had been used against Russian territory, citing a strike on a fuel depot in the Kamensky District of the Rostov Region.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and currently controls roughly a fifth of Ukrainian territory.