Russia warns Britain of 'consequences' of supplying drones to Ukraine

Aug. 18 (UPI) -- Russia is warning Britain that there will be "consequences" following reports that Ukraine has struck within Russian territory with drones provided by London and made by British companies.

In a statement Tuesday, the Embassy of Russia to the United Kingdom accused London of escalating Russia's war against Ukraine by providing the weaponry, while chastising it for "hypocritically professing a desire for peace."

"London's actions will inevitably carry consequences for which it will have to answer," the embassy said.

"The deeper its involvement in the conflict and the greater its support of Kiev's terrorist machinery, the higher the price it will pay."

Britain has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine's defense against Russia, which invaded its eastern neighbor in February 2022, launching the four-year war.

According to a July factsheet from the British government, London has committed more than $33 billion to Ukraine, including more than $21.6 billion in military assistance.

Britain has for years been focused on supplying Ukraine with drones, which have proved effective in Kyiv's defense against the Kremlin. In April, its Ministry of Defense announced it would deliver at least 120,000 drones to Ukraine by the end of this year, a number it increased to 150,000 in June.

The threat from the embassy follows reports stating drones built by British companies were being used by Ukraine to hit targets within the borders of Russia, resulting in more than $47.3 billion in damages.

In response to the embassy, Britain's Ministry of Defense told BBC News in a statement that London stands "shoulder to shoulder" with Kyiv.

"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 ministry spokesperson said.