Russia issued a warning on Thursday, threatening to target British military sites if Ukraine uses British long-range cruise missiles against Russian territories, reports indicate. This follows claims from Moscow that Ukraine used British Storm Shadow missiles to attack a shopping center in Russian-controlled Donetsk, injuring civilians, including children.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated on Thursday that Britain risks becoming legally involved in civilian-targeted incidents she terms ‘terrorism.’ She cautioned that not altering their approach would lead to ‘catastrophic consequences,’ according to 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 declared at a Moscow news conference.
Zakharova urged British authorities to abandon their aggressive stance to avoid escalating the conflict to a ‘new level.’
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Ukraine for Independence Day on August 24, announcing the potential release of classified details about British cruise missile components for future production in Ukraine, with France showing interest, as reported by the U.K. government.
The SCALP missile, France’s version of the British Storm Shadow, can reach distances exceeding 155 miles.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused the UK of ‘participating in the war’ and exacerbating tensions.
A representative from Britain’s Ministry of Defence affirmed London’s solidarity with Ukraine and its commitment to supplying necessary defense equipment against Russian aggression.
“Russia should be in no doubt about the resolve of this Government to stand against Russian aggression, in Ukraine and against the UK and our allies,” the spokesperson asserted.
In a previous warning to Britain on August 17, Russia reminded them of the consequences after reports from The Times on August 15 highlighted British drones striking Russian targets for the first time.
Prime Minister Burnham, responding during his Kyiv visit, condemned Russia’s ‘outrageous threats’ and maintained unwavering support for Ukraine.
Although Britain’s Ministry of Defence did not verify the use of British drones in these strikes, Zakharova’s comments came as former President Donald Trump downplayed the threat of war, claiming Russia would not attack a NATO member.
Sergei Naryshkin, head of Russia’s SVR foreign intelligence service, confirmed a meeting with CIA Director John Ratcliffe in Moscow to discuss intelligence matters.
Trump characterized Ratcliffe’s visit as ‘semi-routine.’
Fox News Digital reached out to 10 Downing Street for a response.
Emma Bussey, a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital, previously worked with The Telegraph covering various news aspects including politics and culture.