Russia warns European weapon factories supplying Ukraine are legitimate targets

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has declared that European weapon factories producing military systems for Ukraine are ‘legitimate military targets’. Zakharova stated that military facilities located outside of Ukrainian territory that supply the Kyiv government should not be considered safe.

This warning follows Poland's proposal to host a production line for Patriot interceptor missiles destined for Ukraine. Zakharova argued that European nations are directly involved in the conflict through the establishment of weapon factories and joint ventures, claiming this involvement delays a resolution to the war rather than bringing it closer.

While the rhetoric regarding ‘legitimate targets’ has not been accompanied by a specific military threat, it highlights the escalating tension between Moscow and the European defense industry. NATO and various European nations have maintained their commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian forces.