Andrei Kelin pointed the finger at the UK when he said Ukraine must have had assistance in the weekend’s drone attacks
Russia’s UK Ambassador, Andrei Kelin, issued a stark warning that Ukraine’s recent attacks risk escalating the conflict to the level of “World War III.” He partly blamed the UK for providing assistance to Ukraine, suggesting that the situation is becoming increasingly dangerous.
Kelin expressed grave concern over the escalating conflict, stating that Ukraine’s actions “are bringing the conflict to a different level of escalation.” He urged Kyiv to refrain from actions that could engulf the world in another global conflict. “That’s the very worst-case scenario that we can imagine,” he said.
Over the weekend, more than a hundred Ukrainian drones were deployed inside Russia, destroying more than 40 warplanes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the attack as one that “will undoubtedly be in the history books.” This significant military action has heightened tensions and raised questions about the involvement of external powers.
Kelin specifically pointed the finger at the UK, suggesting that Ukraine must have had assistance in carrying out the attacks. He stated, “[This] kind of attack involves, of course, the provision of very high technology, so-called geospaced data, which only can be done by those who have it in possession. And this is London and Washington.” While he expressed doubt about American involvement, noting that President Trump had denied it, he did not receive a similar denial from London. Russian media had earlier reported that a bridge was closed, though the reason was not disclosed.
Kelin emphasised the deep involvement of British forces in working together with Ukraine, stating, “We perfectly know how much London is involved, how deeply British forces are involved in working together with Ukraine.” This assertion underscores the complexity of the situation and the potential for further escalation.
On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump revealed that Vladimir Putin had told him “very strongly” that Russia “will have to respond to the recent attack on the airfields.” Trump said that he discussed the attack with Putin during a phone call that lasted more than an hour. “It was a good conversation, but not a conversation that will lead to immediate peace,” he wrote.
Kelin reiterated this sentiment, telling, “It is up to the Ministry of Defence to make the right solution, but we have to respond to it.” A Downing Street spokesperson responded by stating, “We never comment on operational matters at home or abroad.”
The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of the conflict. The involvement of external powers and the potential for further escalation have raised concerns globally. As the world watches closely, the hope for a peaceful resolution remains paramount.
The recent attacks and the subsequent responses highlight the delicate balance of power and the potential for unintended consequences. The international community is urged to remain vigilant and to support efforts aimed at de-escalation and dialogue. The path to peace is fraught with challenges, but it is essential to prevent the worst-case scenario that Ambassador Kelin warned against.
The recent developments in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine have brought the world to the brink of a potentially catastrophic situation. The involvement of external powers, particularly the UK, has added another layer of complexity. As leaders on both sides contemplate their next moves, the hope for a peaceful resolution remains a crucial goal. The international community must continue to advocate for dialogue and de-escalation to prevent the conflict from spiralling out of control.
