Russia warns Britain of consequences over reported Ukraine drone strikes

Russia warns Britain of consequences over reported Ukraine drone strikes
An FP-2 middle strike drone flies after being launched, Kharkiv region, Ukraine, 16 August 2026
Reuters

Russia has warned Britain it will face consequences following reports that British-made drones were used by Ukraine to carry out long-range strikes against targets inside Russian territory.

The Russian Embassy in London issued the warning after The Times reported that British-made drones had been used for long-range strikes inside Russia for the first time.

“London’s actions will inevitably carry consequences for which it will have to answer,” the embassy said in a statement posted on Telegram.

“The deeper its involvement in the conflict and the greater its support for Kyiv, the higher the price it will pay.”

Ukraine expands drone campaign

Ukraine has increasingly used long-range drones to target Russian oil refineries, logistics facilities and other infrastructure that Kyiv says supports Moscow’s military campaign.

Kyiv has said the strikes are intended to weaken Russia’s ability to sustain its war effort, while Moscow has repeatedly criticised attacks on targets inside its territory.

Britain’s Ministry of Defence did not confirm whether British drones had been used in the reported strikes.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said the UK remained committed to supporting Ukraine and providing the equipment it needs to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.

Britain increases military support

In June, Britain announced plans to provide 150,000 drones to Ukraine by the end of 2026 as part of a $996 million (£752 million) support package, which also includes air defence equipment.

The announcement came as drone warfare has become an increasingly significant element of the conflict, with both Russia and Ukraine relying heavily on unmanned systems to strike targets beyond the front line.

Moscow warns of wider escalation

Russia has repeatedly warned Britain and other Western allies that their military support for Ukraine risks increasing tensions and triggering a broader confrontation.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, London has remained one of Kyiv’s strongest supporters, while Moscow has accused Western countries of becoming increasingly involved in the conflict.

Tags