Keir Starmer emphasized the need for allies to compel Vladimir Putin to engage in meaningful peace talks, citing the Kremlin leader’s lack of commitment to peace efforts.
The Prime Minister outlined plans for the Coalition of the Willing nations supporting Ukraine to escalate pressure on Russia by implementing stricter economic measures and enhancing Kyiv’s military capabilities with advanced long-range missiles.
Following discussions with over 20 international partners in London, Mr. Starmer aimed to capitalize on recent US and EU sanctions against Russia by proposing a strategy for the upcoming months, which includes disrupting funding for Russia’s military operations by targeting its oil and gas sector.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, he advocated for unfreezing Russian assets to help finance Ukraine’s defense, insisting that Russia should bear the financial burden of its actions in Ukraine.
In addition, the PM stressed the importance of strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses and supplying Kyiv with long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory, all while standing alongside Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky.
Mr. Starmer criticized Putin’s recent territorial demands on Ukraine as unrealistic and indicative of a lack of sincerity in seeking peace, affirming that the Russian leader’s actions speak louder than words.
President Zelensky condemned Russia’s aggressive tactics targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, expressing concerns over potential hardships during the winter season due to deliberate disruptions by Russian forces.
He reiterated the need for access to long-range missiles to defend Ukraine and urged for a complete halt to the war, urging for expanded sanctions against Russia while commending the US for targeting key Russian oil companies.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte commented on Russia’s dwindling resources and escalating casualties, suggesting that Putin’s military strategy was losing momentum.
The Danish PM called for a swift decision on allowing Ukraine access to funds from frozen Russian assets before Christmas Eve, while the Dutch PM emphasized the necessity of addressing the illicit oil trade that sustains Russia’s war efforts.
