Russia seizes French firms' assets, summons UK envoy over Ukraine support

Moscow has condemned the United Kingdom’s recent increase in military assistance to Kyiv, describing the move as an “endorsement of terrorism.” The statement, issued by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, followed reports that Britain had accelerated the delivery of advanced weapons, including air‑defence systems and precision‑guided munitions, to Ukraine amid a heightened phase of the conflict. The Kremlin argued that such supplies enable attacks on Russian territory and civilian infrastructure, violating international law and undermining prospects for a diplomatic resolution.

The British government, which has pledged to sustain and expand its support for Ukraine’s defence capabilities, rejected the Russian accusations, asserting that the aid is intended solely to help Kyiv defend its sovereignty. Analysts note that the escalation in Western arms shipments comes as Russia intensifies its own offensive operations in eastern Ukraine, prompting a cycle of reciprocal accusations. The Kremlin’s remarks underscore the deepening diplomatic rift between Moscow and Western allies, while the United Kingdom maintains that its assistance complies with established international norms.