Kremlin accuses David Cameron of 'direct escalation' in Ukraine arms support
- In Reports
- 10:58 AM, May 04, 2024
- Myind Staff
The Kremlin condemned British Foreign Secretary David Cameron's statement suggesting that Ukraine could employ British weapons against targets within Russia as a direct and perilous escalation of tensions surrounding the conflict.
Cameron pledged £3 billion ($3.7 billion) in annual military aid for Ukraine, stating that London would continue the support for "as long as it takes". He further indicated that the UK had no objection to the utilization of its weapons within Russia.
During a visit to Kyiv, Cameron informed Reuters that Ukraine possesses the right to defend itself, highlighting that Ukraine's actions are driven by the need for self-defense, particularly in response to Russia's strikes within Ukrainian territory.
In recent weeks, Russian missile and drone strikes have targeted Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Cameron's remarks indicate a more hawkish stance from Britain towards Russia, particularly in comparison to the United States. The US emphasises that any weapons provided to Ukraine should only be deployed within its internationally recognized borders, rather than against targets inside Russia.
Ukraine acknowledges utilizing its own drones and other weapons to target locations within Russia, including oil refineries and railway infrastructure. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized Cameron's remarks, labeling them as dangerous.
He stated that Cameron's comments represent a direct escalation of tension surrounding the Ukrainian conflict, potentially endangering European security and the broader European security framework.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova expressed concern over the trend of escalating tension in official statements. She noted that this was the first instance of a Western politician openly acknowledging a long-standing secret that the West is conducting a covert war against Russia through the actions of Ukrainians.
Zakharova warned that Russia would retaliate if Ukraine were to use British weapons to launch strikes against Russian territory. She criticised the irresponsibility of such statements, particularly considering the potential consequences for countries possessing nuclear weapons.
Zakharova emphasised that Russia always responds to such provocations and questioned the lack of consideration for the well-being of British citizens and EU nationals.
Image source: Reuters
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