UK Condemns Russia for Launching Record Hypersonic Missiles at Ukraine During Geneva Diplomacy

The United Kingdom has publicly criticized Russia for intensifying its military campaign against Ukraine at a time when diplomatic efforts are underway.

Ambassador Holly Holland addressed the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), emphasizing that Russia’s actions are undermining peace talks rather than contributing to a resolution.

Holland highlighted that the recent surge in attacks is not random but shows a deliberate pattern designed to apply pressure during negotiations.

“This is not the behaviour of a state seeking peace,” Holland remarked, noting that Russia continues to project blame onto Ukraine and its allies even as it escalates its military operations.

Pattern of Escalation During Diplomacy

According to the UK, Russia has increasingly targeted Ukrainian civilians and energy infrastructure while peace talks are ongoing.

Since October, Moscow has launched over a thousand missiles, many striking power plants and critical grid infrastructure.

February alone saw a record of 117 ballistic or hypersonic missile strikes, surpassing the previous monthly record set in October 2025.

The month also witnessed an average of over 170 drone attacks per day, along with the deployment of advanced hypersonic systems like the Zircon missile.

These coordinated strikes coincided with diplomatic gatherings in Geneva, demonstrating a clear pattern of escalation whenever diplomacy gains traction.

Humanitarian Toll Remains Devastating

The human cost of these attacks is staggering.

In 2025, Russian strikes resulted in over 2,500 civilian deaths and left more than 12,000 injured.

Nearly 600 healthcare facilities were damaged or destroyed, placing immense strain on Ukraine’s medical system.

The UN has warned of continued large-scale displacement this year, with millions at risk as winter conditions exacerbate already dire living circumstances.

Beyond human casualties, these attacks threaten the safety of nuclear power systems and critical infrastructure, worsening the hardships faced by vulnerable communities.

International Support for Ukraine’s Sovereignty

As Russia enters the fifth year of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, global support for Kyiv remains strong.

During a recent Reinforced Permanent Council meeting, 49 delegations voiced unwavering backing for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

This collective stance demonstrates that the international community continues to hold Russia accountable for its aggressive actions.

Ambassador Holland emphasized that the obstacle to peace is not Ukraine or its partners, but Russia’s persistent decision to pursue an illegal war of aggression.

Impact and Consequences

Russia’s attacks during diplomacy erode trust in international peace mechanisms.

Damage to critical infrastructure increases civilian suffering and hinders Ukraine’s energy and healthcare systems.

Global perception of Russia as a reliable negotiation partner is further damaged.

Escalation risks wider regional instability and potential energy crises in Europe.

What’s Next?

Holland’s statement made clear the UK’s position: Russia must cease its attacks and engage in genuine negotiations to secure a just and lasting peace.

Without meaningful dialogue, the humanitarian crisis will likely worsen, and international tensions may deepen.

Diplomatic channels, including those led by the US and EU, remain critical.

Observers will be watching whether Moscow will respond with de-escalation or continue its pattern of strikes during key negotiations.

Summary

Russia’s intensified strikes on Ukraine during active diplomacy have drawn strong condemnation from the UK.

Ambassador Holland outlined a deliberate pattern of escalation that targets civilians, energy systems, and critical infrastructure while blaming Ukraine and its allies for disrupting peace efforts.

The international community continues to support Ukraine, but the path to peace requires Russia to halt its aggression and engage in good faith negotiations.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll continues to rise, underscoring the urgent need for meaningful diplomatic intervention.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Russia escalates military attacks during diplomatic negotiations, undermining peace efforts.
• February 2026 set a record for ballistic and hypersonic missile strikes on Ukraine.
• Over 2,500 civilians killed and nearly 600 healthcare facilities damaged in 2025.
• UK reaffirms support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and calls for Russia to negotiate in good faith.
• International backing for Ukraine remains strong amid ongoing conflict.