MOD signals that Ukrainian military is free to use British weapons inside Russia
Ukrainian armed forces are free to use weapons sent to them by the UK in Russia, the Ministry of Defence has signalled.
The MOD said Ukraine has the right to use the weapons for its self-defence, a stance that has not changed under Sir Keir Starmer's Labour Government.
A spokesman for the MOD said: "Under Article 51 of the UN Charter, Ukraine has a clear right of self-defence against Russia's illegal attacks, that does not preclude operations inside Russia."
"We make clear during the gifting process that equipment is to be used in line with international law," he added.
This means anti-tank missiles, artillery, armoured vehicles and other weapons donated by the UK could soon be seen on the battlefield in Russia – although Storm Shadow missiles will remain off-limits for use beyond Ukraine's borders.
Downing Street has previously insisted these long-range missiles are only to be used for conflict within Ukraine.
The signal from the MOD comes after Ukraine launched a surprise counter-offensive against Vladimir Putin's Russia in recent weeks, beginning an excursion into Kursk – a Russian region on the other side of Ukraine's eastern border.
The mission has the apparent aim of diverting Moscow's forces away from land they have invaded.
But the latest turn in the conflict has sparked concerns about a wider escalation of tensions between Russia and the West.
In recent days, Ukrainian troops appear to be gaining more ground in the Kursk region, while neighbouring Russian states along Ukraine's border declared a state of emergency.
Ukraine claims to have secured 1,000 sq km of land in Kursk, with the latest military action resulting in large numbers of Russian troops being captured.
The offensive is believed to be the largest of its kind by a foreign army on Russian soil since the Second World War.
Join Our Newsletter
