Russia bans 7 British defense industry executives, citing military support for Ukraine

By Kanyshai Butun

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russia on Tuesday added seven British defense industry executives to its entry ban list over London's military support for Ukraine, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

The ministry said the move was in response to what it described as Britain's "hostile anti-Russian policy" and its military assistance to Kyiv.

Those targeted are associated with British companies that Moscow alleged were supplying Ukraine with weapons and military technologies, including equipment used in strikes deep inside Russian territory.

The ministry identified Alex Edward, CEO of Rotron Aerospace; Kev Oliver, the company's chief military adviser; and George Zambellas, its chairman.

The list also includes Neil Appleton, executive director of Malloy Aeronautics; Robert Michael Gascoyne, CEO of MGI Engineering; and Paul Webb, director and co-founder of Tekever UK.

Julian Frederick Charles Cracknell, chief technology and information officer at BAE Systems, was also added to the list, according to the ministry.

Moscow alleged that London was supplying Ukraine with missile and drone systems and technologies intended to inflict "maximum damage" on Russia.

The ministry also criticized the British government's defense spending, arguing that the funds could instead support the country's civilian sector amid domestic economic and social challenges.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said it would continue expanding its entry ban list in response to what it considers hostile actions by the British government.