In an interview with Kyiv Post, former US ambassador to Ukraine Steven Pifer dismissed Russia’s warning that European companies involved in Ukraine’s drone supply chain could become “legitimate targets.”
Russia’s defence ministry warned on Wednesday that European plans to step up drone supplies to Ukraine are dragging those countries deeper into a war with Russia.
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The ministry published lists of companies and facilities across Europe that it claims are supporting Ukraine’s drone industry, including locations in cities such as London, Munich, Prague and Vilnius.
Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev amplified the move, saying the list should be taken “literally” as a register of potential targets.
The Czech Foreign Ministry summoned Russia’s ambassador on Thursday to demand an explanation over threats against companies based in the country.
Pifer, however, ridiculed Medvedev’s rhetoric.
“First of all, former President Medvedev says a lot of things that are, quite frankly, borderline crazy or just outright crazy,” he said. “So I’m not sure I would take his comments as definitive.”
He said Moscow’s move appeared aimed at pressuring European governments and companies involved in supporting Ukraine’s defense industry.
“To be sure, the Russians are trying to intimidate those countries in Europe that are now working with Ukraine on the production of drones,” Pifer said.
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But he questioned whether Russia has the capacity – or intent – to follow through on such threats while its military remains bogged down in Ukraine.
“Given that the Russian military at this point has its hands completely full with the war in Ukraine, does Russia really want to pick a fight with NATO countries?” he asked.
Analysts say the publication of the lists is part of a broader effort by Moscow to deter Western support for Ukraine.
International interest in Ukraine’s drones comes as a blow to Russia, as their effectiveness on the battlefield has become increasingly clear.
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