Keir Starmer emphasizes the need for allies to compel Vladimir Putin to engage in peace talks, as he believes the Russian leader is not genuinely interested in achieving peace.
The Prime Minister states that the Coalition of the Willing countries supporting Ukraine will escalate actions against Russia by imposing economic sanctions and enhancing Kyiv’s military capabilities with long-range missiles.
Following discussions with over 20 allies in London, Mr. Starmer aims to build on the momentum created by US and EU sanctions on Russia.
He outlines a strategy for the upcoming months, including measures to cut off financial support for Russia’s military by targeting its oil and gas sector.
Mr. Starmer stresses the urgency of releasing frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine’s defenses, asserting that Russia should bear the costs of its actions in Ukraine.
In addition, supporters of Ukraine are urged to strengthen its air defenses and provide long-range missiles to enable strikes deep into Russia, according to the PM.
Standing alongside Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky, Mr. Starmer criticizes Putin for his lack of commitment to ending the war, citing recent attacks on civilians as evidence of his disregard for peace.
Describing Putin’s recent territorial demands as unreasonable, Mr. Starmer asserts that the Russian leader is not genuinely seeking peace.
President Zelensky accuses Russia of conducting a “campaign of terror” targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, intending to use winter as a tool of torment to weaken the country.
He calls for the provision of long-range missiles to Ukraine, a request that was previously rejected by Donald Trump, to leave Russia no choice but to end the conflict.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte comments on Putin’s diminishing resources and military losses, indicating a weakening position for Russia in the conflict.
Danish PM Mette Frederiksen suggests a decision on allowing Ukraine access to funds from frozen Russian assets should be made before Christmas Eve.
Dutch PM Dick Schoof highlights the need to address the shadow fleet that supports the war by clandestinely exporting Russian oil to evade Western sanctions.