Russia Threatens British Military Sites Amid Tensions Over Missile Usage
Russia issued a warning on Thursday, suggesting it may target British military locations both in Ukraine and elsewhere. This is contingent upon Kyiv using British long-range cruise missiles against Russian territory, according to recent reports.
The warning follows allegations from Moscow that Ukraine struck a shopping center in Donetsk, a Russian-held area, using British Storm Shadow missiles. This attack reportedly injured civilians, including children.
Russian Foreign Ministry representative Maria Zakharova stated that Britain is narrowly avoiding legal complicity in what she described as terrorism targeting civilians. She cautioned that failing to reverse course could lead to severe consequences, as reported by Reuters.
“We have repeatedly warned that any British military installations and equipment in Ukraine and beyond its borders could be targeted in response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory carried out using British weapons,” Zakharova emphasized.
Zakharova urged British leaders to decisively renounce their hostile stance to avert further escalation of the conflict.
During a visit to Ukraine on August 24, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham disclosed that a defense contractor might unveil confidential information about British missile components. This revelation comes as Ukraine and France aim to set up assembly lines in Ukraine for SCALP cruise missiles.
The SCALP missile is France’s version of Britain’s Storm Shadow, capable of hitting targets over 155 miles away.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused the U.K. of fueling the conflict, stating they are actively “participating in the war.”
Britain’s Ministry of Defence expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, affirming its commitment to provide Kyiv with necessary equipment to counter Russia’s invasion. A spokesperson reiterated Britain’s determination to resist Russian aggression.
Russia issued another warning on August 17 after The Times reported the first use of British drones by Ukraine to strike inside Russia. Britain’s Ministry of Defence did not confirm the involvement of British drones.
Zakharova’s statements coincided with former U.S. President Donald Trump minimizing the threat of a broader conflict during a phone interview with Axios. Trump expressed confidence that Russia would not attack a NATO ally.
Sergei Naryshkin, head of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, revealed his meeting with CIA Director John Ratcliffe in Moscow earlier this week. This interaction was described as routine, focusing on intelligence service-related discussions.
Fox News Digital sought comments from 10 Downing Street regarding these developments. Emma Bussey contributed to this report. She previously worked with The Telegraph’s U.S. overnight team, covering various topics including foreign affairs, politics, and culture.