A former Russian minister has warned that drone factories in the United Kingdom could face attacks from "unknown sources", remarks made during an appearance on BBC Newsnight.
The comments came after the UK government announced it had agreed to hand over blueprints for British-made missile components to Ukraine. The disclosure of the transfer prompted the former minister to suggest that defence-related facilities might be exposed to new security risks.
It was not specified on the programme which groups or states the former minister was referring to when he used the phrase "unknown sources", nor were details provided about any specific threats. The warning underscores the sensitivities surrounding the provision of military support and technical information in the context of the conflict in Ukraine.
Observers say the debate highlights the broader security questions faced by countries supplying equipment or technical data: manufacturers and government agencies may need to review protective measures around facilities and supply chains as assistance to Ukraine continues. UK officials have previously defended military aid to Kyiv as necessary support, while also stressing the importance of safeguarding sensitive information and infrastructure.