Oxford University shared its COVID-19 vaccine data with Russia through formal channels, meaning Russia had no need to steal any information regarding the vaccine from the United Kingdom, Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) CEO Kirill Dmitriev (pictured) said on Thursday.
The sovereign wealth fund head went on to claim reports of Russia stealing the UK's vaccine research have the goal of "tarnishing the reputation of the Russian vaccine." He noted the accusations must have come from those "scared of its success" as he believes Russia could be the first to develop a COVID-19 vaccine in the world.
Earlier in the day, the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) said Russia targeted Oxford University's and Imperial College London's research in a "despicable" attack. The Oxford vaccine is considered be to one of the most promising coronavirus vaccines being developed. However, Russia, China and the United States also have good candidates.
