Keir Starmer emphasized the need for allies to compel Vladimir Putin to engage in meaningful peace negotiations, as he believes the Russian leader is not genuinely committed to ending the conflict.
During discussions in London with over 20 partners, the Prime Minister outlined a strategy to intensify pressure on Russia by strengthening Ukraine’s military capabilities with advanced weaponry and imposing economic sanctions on the Kremlin.
Starmer underscored the importance of taking immediate measures to unfreeze Russian assets to support Ukraine’s defense efforts, stating that Russia should bear the financial responsibility for its actions in Ukraine.
In a joint effort to support Ukraine, the PM advocated for enhancing the country’s air defense systems and supplying long-range missiles to target key locations within Russia.
Standing alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Starmer criticized Putin for his aggressive actions, pointing out recent attacks on civilians and stressing that Putin’s territorial demands are unacceptable and indicate a lack of genuine interest in peace.
Zelensky condemned Russia’s destructive tactics against Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, warning of the upcoming winter that Russia could exploit as a means of inflicting further suffering on the Ukrainian population.
The Ukrainian leader reiterated the necessity for access to long-range missiles, following the rejection of such requests by the United States, to compel Russia to end the conflict and restore peace to Ukraine.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte highlighted Russia’s diminishing resources and escalating casualties, emphasizing the need for decisive action to counter Russian aggression.
Various leaders, including Danish PM Mette Frederiksen and Dutch PM Dick Schoof, called for swift decisions on utilizing frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine and addressing illicit activities funding the war.
The international community continues to mobilize efforts to pressure Russia and support Ukraine in the ongoing conflict, seeking to bring about a peaceful resolution to the crisis.