BURNHAM ACCUSES KREMLIN OF OUTRAGEOUS THREATS AS UK SHARES MISSILE DATA WITH...

Andy Burnham has accused Russia of making "outrageous threats" against the UK after Moscow warned of escalated tensions following Britain's decision to provide Ukraine with declassified information on missile components. Speaking in Kyiv during his first trip abroad as Prime Minister, Burnham compared Ukraine's resistance to Britain's defence against Nazi Germany, stating: "My nation kept the flame of European freedom alive in the 20th century, you hold that flame in the 21st." He pledged continued British support for Ukraine despite what he characterised as Russian threats. The visit coincided with Ukraine's Independence Day on Monday.

Russia's Presidential Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the disclosure of information about UK-manufactured components for long-range cruise missiles would add "fuel to the fire" and obstruct progress towards peace negotiations. Peskov stated that Britain was "involved in this war on the side of the Kyiv regime" and accused the UK of "methodically and regularly" schemes to prevent peaceful settlement. Moscow said it would identify and destroy locations of missile production sites. Burnham responded by questioning who initiated the conflict, stating: "Who started the fire? That's the question, isn't it?" The declassified details concern Storm Shadow/Scalp missile components and would eventually allow Ukraine to manufacture its own version, though officials indicated this process may require years.

Burnham joined a conference call with 34 leaders from countries that have pledged to maintain Ukraine's security in the event of a ceasefire agreement. Kyiv prepared for another reported wave of Russian missile attacks as the country marked Independence Day, with other European leaders present alongside the British Prime Minister.