Kathmandu— The United Kingdom is set to provide Ukraine with classified technical information necessary for the domestic assembly of long-range cruise missiles, Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced ahead of a visit to Kiev. The move, authorized through European defense manufacturer MBDA, concerns UK-made components of the French SCALP missile – also known as Storm Shadow in Britain – which has a range exceeding 250 kilometers. This decision aims to facilitate local production lines within Ukraine, supported by both France and the UK, amidst ongoing conflict with Russia. Burnham's first international trip since assuming office last month will include meetings with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky and chairing a session of the Coalition of the Willing.

Expanding Domestic Missile Production

The British government has authorized MBDA to release classified information regarding UK-made components for SCALP missiles. Kiev and Paris are jointly seeking to establish local production lines within Ukraine, and Britain believes this data transfer will allow both France and Ukraine to progress with the assembly of these weapons domestically.

Burnham emphasized continued support for Ukraine, stating, “The Ukrainian people should be in no doubt: The UK is behind you today and for as long as it takes,” mirroring commitments made by previous administrations.

Escalating Concerns from Moscow

Moscow has consistently maintained that the UK and other nations supplying weapons to Kiev bear responsibility for Ukraine’s deep-strike campaign, alleging civilian casualties. The Sunday Times reported that drones manufactured by BAE Systems and another British firm have been used in attacks within Russia over the past six months, including strikes on oil refineries.

The Russian Embassy in London issued a statement last week condemning the UK as “an accomplice and co-perpetrator of the bloody crimes and terrorist attacks” committed by Ukraine. They warned that increased involvement would result in repercussions.

Russian Warnings of Retaliation

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has cautioned that London will face consequences if it persists in supplying drones used for strikes inside Russia. He stated, “We have every right to regard the proudly proclaimed direct involvement of British missile forces in strikes against Russia as participation in the war, with all the consequences that entails.”

The warnings signal heightened tensions and potential escalation following the UK’s decision to share sensitive technology.

Coalition of the Willing Meeting

During his visit, Burnham is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky. He will also chair the first meeting of the Coalition of the Willing – an initiative established by his predecessor, Keir Starmer, alongside France – aimed at coordinating international support for Ukraine.

Burnham’s trip and the subsequent transfer of missile technology represent a significant escalation in Western military aid to Ukraine, while simultaneously raising concerns about potential retaliation from Russia.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.