Ukraine news: Britain will arm Kiev with anti-ship missiles as a warning to Putin | World | News

About 100,000 Russian troops have massed around the Ukrainian border in recent weeks, according to Western reports. Last month Defense Secretary Ben Wallace approved sending “light anti-armour defensive weapon systems” to Ukraine, along with British troops to help with training. Mr Wallace said these could be used in ‘self-defence’ and were otherwise non-threatening.

Now Ukraine’s envoy to Britain has reportedly said more military support is on the way.

Vadim Pristayko said Novoye Radio Kiev would receive anti-ship missiles for potential use against Russia in the Black Sea.

He said: “For the first time, our armed forces, the navy in particular, will receive real weapons, missiles that will finally allow us to have something against the Russians in the Black Sea and the Sea of ​​Azov.”

It is believed to be part of a £1.7billion deal with London to offer financial naval support.

As part of this, Britain will provide Kiev with loans that must be repaid within 10 years.

According to Naval News, the agreement remains vague but should finance the acquisition, delivery and maintenance of two minesweepers and the joint construction of eight missile boats.

It will also cover the delivery and installation of weapon systems on ships already in use in the Ukrainian Navy and provide additional technical support.

Mr. Pristayko said: “Our armed forces have never received such serious funds from abroad for their development.”

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In recent diplomatic talks, the Kremlin said it had “no plans” to invade Ukraine.

But private intelligence firm Dragonfly has warned that if it changes its mind, it could launch a “devastating missile and artillery attack” at “little or no notice”.

Moscow’s attempts at deterrence appear to have failed, he added.

In particular, the threats of sanctions “had little impact”, Russia having “protected” its economy.

Mr Pristayko did not say when additional support would arrive in Ukraine from London.