The UK Government has sent a message to Russia after it threatened the country would face "consequences" over British-made drones being used by Ukraine. The Ministry of Defence said: "Britain stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and we are committed to providing the equipment Ukraine needs to defend itself against Putin's illegal invasion."
UK reaffirms resolve against Russian aggression
The statement continued: "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."
Russia warned Britain on Monday, August 17, that it would pay a "price" after reports that the drones had been used in strikes deep inside Russia. Russia's embassy in London accused Britain of becoming "an accomplice and co-perpetrator" of the attacks and of "deliberately opting for an escalation" in the conflict.
Warship deployed near NATO ally
The comments by the Ministry of Defence come after a report that Russia has sent a heavily armed warship close to a NATO ally in the Baltic Sea. The ship, which has been deployed near a German island, is fortified with cruise and hypersonic missiles. It is reported to be one of the most advanced warships in Russia's possession and is capable of long-range strikes as well as anti-submarine warfare and equipped with nuclear-capable Zircon hypersonic missiles.
Putin threatens retaliation over ship seizures
Russian President Vladimir Putin last week also threatened to retaliate against British and EU ships that tried to seize Russia-linked vessels. Britain and France have seized commercial vessels suspected of transporting oil and other goods on behalf of Russia in recent months in what is believed to be a violation of international sanctions. The ships generally sail under obscure foreign flags and have been called the Russian shadow fleet.
"It's nothing but piracy and robbery. If this is done, we will be forced to respond in kind ... [Russia can retaliate] in any area where we see it as necessary and appropriate," Mr Putin said.
