In brief
Russia has condemned the United Kingdom for supplying drones used in attacks against Russian targets, calling the UK an accomplice in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. A spokesperson for the UK’s Ministry of Defence defended the decision to supply Ukraine with equipment, citing its commitment to counter Russian aggression. The drones, built by two British companies, reportedly struck military and industrial sites, including refineries and an average of seven Wildberries logistics centres, causing over £35 billion in damage. Moscow’s warning followed a wave of large‑scale Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory, including a deadly attack on the Koledino Industrial Park near Podolsk. The incident underscores the growing intensity of the war and the international community’s involvement.
Russia has accused the United Kingdom of deliberately escalating the Ukraine crisis. The claim comes after confirmation that British-made drones were used in attacks on Russian targets, including the Wildberries logistics hub.
In a statement, the Russian Embassy to the UK alleged that London’s actions made the UK an ‘accomplice and co‑perpetrator’ of ‘bloody crimes and terrorist attacks.’ It warned that deeper involvement would bring severe consequences.
Britain’s Ministry of Defence replied that it remains ‘shoulder to shoulder’ with Ukraine, stressing its commitment to provide equipment that helps Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.
The drones, built by two distinct UK companies, have targeted military and industrial sites, including refineries and warehouses. Ukraine claims the attacks have caused over £35 billion in damage and disabled several Wildberries logistics centres.
Russia launched its full‑scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and now controls about a fifth of Ukrainian territory. The foreign ministry said UK‑component drones also struck a fuel depot in Rostov’s Kamensky District.
Moscow’s warning followed a large wave of Ukrainian strikes, including Monday’s attack that killed nine and injured 23, eleven of whom were children.
Saturday night Ukraine launched 822 drones towards Russia, with 600 aimed at Moscow, officials said, calling it one of the most massive attacks in recent memory. Seven deaths were recorded across Russia.
The same night, Russian counterattacks on Ukraine killed at least seven and injured more than 39.
In April, Britain’s MoD announced plans to supply Ukraine with tens of thousands of drones, including long‑range strike devices, in its largest package yet.
