THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has been forced to apologise after mistakenly using an image of a Russian-linked attack drone to illustrate a major defence investment announcement — just one day after concerns were raised about potential security threats to the UK.

Ministers had been promoting a £50m Defence Growth Deal, signed at Cardiff Castle by UK Defence Secretary John Healey, First Minister Eluned Morgan and Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens. The agreement aims to position Wales as a centre for autonomous technology and uncrewed systems, including drones used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

However, the image used on the Business Wales website to promote the initiative was identified as a HESA Shahed-136 — an Iranian-designed drone widely used by Russian forces in attacks against Ukraine.

The error was spotted by technology author Gavin Harper, who criticised the choice of imagery as “tone deaf” given the ongoing war and the presence of Ukrainian refugees living in Wales.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said the incident was a genuine mistake.

“This was a genuine mistake. A stock image from an external library was used on a business support social media platform and was removed as soon as the site became aware,” the spokesperson said.

The Shahed-136, also known by its Russian designation Geran-2, is a so-called “one-way attack drone” or kamikaze drone designed to strike ground targets from long distances. The weapon has become closely associated with Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian areas since the invasion began.

Security context

The incident comes amid growing discussion about defence preparedness in the UK and potential threats from hostile states.

As reported by The Herald on Tuesday (Feb 24), concerns were raised about the vulnerability of British military infrastructure following warnings that cruise missile-equipped submarines could theoretically threaten airbases. The story also referenced recent reports of suspected Russian maritime intelligence activity off the Welsh coast, including incidents near Aberporth.

Against that backdrop, the use of imagery linked to a weapon deployed by Russian forces has drawn criticism online and prompted questions about the vetting of official communications.

Economic ambitions

Despite the controversy, ministers say the Defence Growth Deal represents a significant opportunity for Wales, with investment aimed at boosting advanced manufacturing, research and technology development linked to the defence sector.

The agreement is intended to help Wales capitalise on emerging defence technologies, including autonomous systems, while supporting jobs and economic growth.

Opposition figures have yet to comment formally on the image error, but political observers say the incident highlights the risks of relying on generic stock imagery in sensitive policy areas such as defence and security.

The Welsh Government has since removed the image from its promotional material.

This story was first reported on Nation Cymru and you can read their article here.

A POPULAR Pembrokeshire pub is reopening its doors this week with a new loyalty scheme aimed at rewarding regular customers.

The Griffin Dale Pembrokeshire will reopen for the season on Thursday (Feb 26), with owners Sian and Simon promising roaring fires, fresh seafood and a warm welcome for returning customers.

To mark the reopening, the team has launched a new Griffin VIP Club, designed to give regular visitors small perks throughout the year.

The scheme includes a loyalty drinks stamp card, occasional meal offers, discounts on drinks, birthday treats and early access to events and promotions.

As part of the launch celebrations, customers visiting on reopening day will receive a complimentary drink along with 20% off food and drinks during a special “Thirsty Thursday” promotion.

The owners said the club was intended as a simple way of giving something back to loyal customers rather than a formal membership programme.

“We’re so excited to be reopening for the season and welcoming everyone back,” they said. “It’s just our way of saying thank you to those who support us and pop in regularly.”

Customers interested in joining the VIP Club can sign up at the bar when visiting the pub.

Campaigners warn patient safety at risk as pressure grows on Welsh Government

A PETITION calling for urgent Welsh Government intervention into services at Withybush Hospital has attracted almost 5,000 signatures, highlighting growing concern across Pembrokeshire about the future of local healthcare.

The petition, titled “Urgent Pembrokeshire Healthcare & Resident Safety – Withybush Hospital & Health Board Intervention,” demands immediate action to oversee Hywel Dda University Health Board and restore essential services to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents.

It has so far gathered 4,875 signatures and remains open until August 23, 2026.

If the petition reaches 10,000 signatures, it will be considered for a debate in the Senedd. Under Welsh Parliament rules, petitions with more than 250 signatures are automatically discussed by the Petitions Committee once the signature-gathering period ends.

The petition was created by Ajay Owen, who argues that current healthcare pressures are placing unacceptable strain on communities across Pembrokeshire.

The petition states: “We demand immediate government intervention to oversee the Health Board at Withybush Hospital and restore essential services to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Pembrokeshire residents. The residents, GP’s, Ambulance Services & Voluntary Sectors do not need the strain or anxiety the health board is causing locally.”

The campaign comes amid ongoing controversy over proposed service changes affecting hospitals in west Wales, including concerns about the future configuration of emergency and specialist care.

Local politicians have already voiced alarm over potential impacts on patient safety, travel times, and ambulance pressures if services are moved further from Pembrokeshire.

The Herald understands that concerns about rural access to emergency treatment have been raised repeatedly in recent months, particularly in relation to time-critical conditions such as stroke and major trauma.

Health boards across Wales continue to face significant workforce shortages, financial pressures, and recruitment challenges, which have contributed to difficult decisions about service configuration.

A spokesperson for Hywel Dda University Health Board has previously said any proposed changes are aimed at improving patient safety and ensuring services are clinically sustainable in the long term.

Campaigners, however, argue that removing services from Withybush risks undermining confidence in local healthcare provision and increasing inequalities for rural communities.

The Welsh Government has been approached for comment.

Residents wishing to sign the petition can do so via the Senedd petitions website.