Russia has issued threats of strikes on British military installations in Ukraine and beyond following remarks made by U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron and other Western officials. The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned the British ambassador to express strong protest over Cameron's comments regarding Ukraine's right to use British weapons to strike Russian territory.
The ministry stated that Cameron's remarks contradicted previous assurances from the British side that such weapons would not be used on Russian soil. This escalation in tensions led to warnings from Russia that any Ukrainian strikes using British weapons on Russian territory could result in retaliatory actions against British military facilities in Ukraine and beyond.
These developments come amidst Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming inauguration for a fifth term and the approaching Victory Day celebrations in Russia. In response to what it perceives as provocative statements from Western officials, Russia announced drills involving tactical nuclear weapons for the first time publicly.
Tactical nuclear weapons are designed for battlefield use and are less powerful than strategic nuclear weapons. The United Nations has expressed concern over the increasing discussions around nuclear weapons, emphasizing the need to avoid actions that could lead to catastrophic consequences.
The Russian warnings serve as a message to Ukraine's Western allies to refrain from deeper involvement in the ongoing conflict. Some Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have hinted at potential military support for Ukraine, further exacerbating tensions with Russia.
The Kremlin views these developments as a new round of escalation and has called for special attention and measures in response to what it perceives as dangerous and provocative statements from Western officials. The conflict in Ukraine continues to strain relations between Russia and the West, with fears of a potential broader confrontation involving NATO.
