Russia Warns France, Britain Over Missile Tech Transfer to Ukraine
Russia accuses France and Britain of 'playing with fire' over missile tech transfers to Ukraine, warning of unpredictable consequences.
Russia has sharply criticised France and Britain for their decision to share sensitive missile technology with Ukraine, warning that such moves could backfire on the two Western nations.
Maria Zakharova, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said on Thursday that Paris and London were "playing with fire" by transferring the technology. She cautioned that the decision could have unpredictable consequences for both countries.
The warning comes after the leaders of Britain and France, during a meeting of allies marking Ukraine's independence day on Monday, pledged stronger military support for Kyiv. That support includes access to classified technology and faster deliveries of air defence missiles.
Britain announced on the same day that it would allow Ukraine to use classified technology to begin domestic production of Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles, which are capable of striking targets deep inside Russian territory. France has also given its approval to license the technology for the European-made missile.
The Russian statement underscores growing tensions over Western military aid to Ukraine, particularly as Kyiv seeks to expand its own defence manufacturing capabilities.