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Russia warns the UK over drones supplied to Ukraine

Published 17:25 18 Aug 2026 BST

Updated 17:28 18 Aug 2026 BST

Christian Buschardt
Russia warns the UK over drones supplied to Ukraine

Homenews

Russia has warned Britain that it could face consequences for supplying drones to Ukraine. 

The warning marks another rise in tensions between Moscow and London.

The Russian embassy in London made the warning after reports that British-made drones were used in attacks inside Russia.

According to reports, the drones were involved in long-range strikes against Russian military and industrial targets.

Britain's Ministry of Defence has not confirmed whether British-made drones were used in these attacks.

Russia accused Britain of becoming increasingly involved in the war and claimed London was deliberately contributing to escalation.

The warning reflects Moscow's repeated criticism of Western countries supplying weapons and military equipment to Ukraine.

Ukraine has increasingly used long-range drones to attack targets deep inside Russian territory, including oil facilities and logistics sites.

However, Britain has defended its continued military support for Ukraine despite Russia's latest warning.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Britain would support Ukraine “100%” and remain beside the country during its war with Russia.

Britain has also committed to providing Ukraine with 150,000 drones by the end of 2026.

The drones are part of a wider military-support package worth £752 million, showing Britain's continued commitment to Ukraine.

Russia's latest statement does not specify what consequences Britain could face.

Instead, the warning appears intended to pressure Britain and other Western countries into reconsidering their military support for Ukraine.

The situation highlights the growing risks surrounding Western assistance as Ukraine conducts increasingly ambitious attacks against Russian territory.

For now, Britain has shown no indication that Russia's warning will change its policy.

The dispute demonstrates how the war continues to create tensions far beyond Ukraine's borders, particularly between Russia and its Western opponents.