Russia threatens ‘consequences’ if Ukraine receives US Patriot missile system

Russia says any weapons systems or crew that accompany it will become ‘legitimate priority targets’

Russia has warned of “consequences” if the US decides to deliver a sophisticated air defence system to Ukraine, a threat that has been rejected by Washington as “ironic”.

The statement came from Russia’s foreign ministry on Thursday amid speculation that the US could provide its Patriot missiles to Ukraine as the invasion of the country by Russia enters its 10th month.

The statement warned that the systems and any crews that accompany them would be a “legitimate target” for the Russian military.