Russia says European arms factories supplying Ukraine are potential military targets for Moscow - Reuters

Moscow announced on September 30 that factories in Europe that produce weapons for Ukraine are regarded as legitimate and potential military targets by Russia. The comment was made by Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova during a press briefing.

Zakharova stated that any European facility involved in the supply of arms to Kyiv falls within the scope of Russia’s targeting criteria. She said the designation reflects Russia’s view that such sites contribute directly to the military capabilities of Ukraine.

The Russian foreign ministry’s position was presented as a response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Western nations continue to provide military assistance to Kyiv. By labeling the European arms producers as legitimate targets, Moscow signaled that it could consider them in future military planning.

According to the ministry, the targeting rationale is based on the premise that the weapons supplied from these factories are being used against Russian forces. The statement implies that the risk extends beyond the battlefield to the industrial sites that support the supply chain.

The remarks have raised concerns among European defense manufacturers and governments about the security implications of Russia’s threat, as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine persists and international support for Ukraine continues.