Moscow warns UK over Ukraine drone attacks
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The gist
Russia warned the UK of 'consequences' after reports that British-made drones were used by Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia. The UK MoD rebuffed the threat, saying it stands 'shoulder.
Background
The warning follows a Sunday Times report that Ukraine used drones made by two UK companies in deep strikes on Russian territory. Russia's embassy in London accused the UK of being an 'accomplice and co-perpetrator' of attacks, while the UK Ministry of Defence reaffirmed its support for Ukraine. This comes amid escalating long-range drone attacks by Ukraine on Russian military and industrial targets, and Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities.
How it unfolded
- Aug 16, 2026Russia launched drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, including a strike on a Wildberries warehouse near Moscow, killing at least three.
- Aug 17, 2026The Sunday Times reported that Ukraine used British-made drones in deep strikes on Russia. Russia's embassy in London issued a statement warning of 'consequences' and accusing the UK of escalation.
- Aug 18, 2026The UK Ministry of Defence responded, saying Britain stands 'shoulder to shoulder' with Ukraine. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova also commented on the use of UK components in drones.
Who’s saying what
- Russia
- Russia's embassy in London said the UK is 'deliberately opting for an escalation' and will face consequences, accusing it of being an 'accomplice and co-perpetrator' of attacks.
- UK
- The UK Ministry of Defence said Britain is 'committed to providing the equipment Ukraine needs to defend itself against Putin's illegal invasion' and rebuffed Russian threats.
Still unverified
The Sunday Times report that British-made drones were used is based on unnamed sources; the second UK company involved was not identified for security reasons.