LONDON — British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s full support for Ukraine after Russia warned of consequences over reports that British-made drones have been used in Ukrainian long-range strikes against targets inside Russia.
Speaking to reporters during a visit to Wolverhampton bus station, Burnham said the UK would continue to support Ukraine “100%” and would remain committed to helping Kyiv defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
“We are not fair-weather friends. We will be there in Ukraine’s hour of need, and that won’t change,” Burnham said.
The Russian Embassy in London issued its warning after reports that drones produced by two British companies had been used in Ukrainian strikes over the past six months. The reported targets included oil refineries and logistics facilities in Russia.
One of the drones was identified as the Nyan, a jet-powered system developed by Callen-Lenz, a subsidiary of BAE Systems. The system has a reported range of more than 150 miles and has been tested by the Royal Navy. The manufacturer of the second drone was not identified for security reasons; it reportedly has a range of more than 600 miles and is launched by catapult.
Russia accused London of deliberately increasing its involvement in the conflict and warned that deeper British support for Ukraine would bring consequences. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov separately said Moscow could regard direct British involvement in strikes on Russian territory as participation in the war.
The UK Ministry of Defence has not confirmed that British-made drones were used in the specific reported strikes. However, the ministry said Britain remained committed to providing Ukraine with equipment needed for its defence and that Russia should have no doubt about the UK government’s position against Russian aggression.
Britain has also committed to providing Ukraine with 150,000 drones by the end of 2026 as part of a £752 million funding package. The UK government said the package also includes more than 350 air-defence missiles and radars.
The latest exchange adds to growing tensions between London and Moscow over Britain’s military support for Ukraine, while Burnham’s statement indicates that the UK intends to maintain its existing policy of supporting Kyiv.
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