Keir Starmer has firmly rejected Vladimir Putin’s demand for countries to stop providing Ukraine with military aid, reaffirming the UK’s unwavering support for Kyiv in the ongoing conflict. In response to Putin’s latest attempt to halt international assistance to Ukraine, a spokesman for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated, “We will always continue to support Ukraine militarily for as long as it takes to put Ukraine in the strongest position possible.”
The rejection comes after Putin’s phone call with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, during which the Russian leader outlined his terms for a peace deal. Putin demanded an end to all foreign military and intelligence support for Ukraine before Russia would agree to any peace settlement.
The UK’s Unyielding Support for Ukraine
Asked about Starmer’s stance on Putin’s request, the PM’s spokesperson emphasised that the UK would stand by Ukraine “for as long as it takes,” underscoring that military support would remain a cornerstone of Britain’s policy. This bold statement aligns with the Prime Minister’s position that Ukraine’s sovereignty must be respected and that Russia should agree to an unconditional ceasefire.
Although Putin did agree to pause his attacks on Ukrainian energy plants for 30 days, he stopped short of agreeing to a full truce. According to the Kremlin, Putin told Trump that any permanent ceasefire would require the cessation of foreign military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, demands that were swiftly rejected by the UK government.
A Call for Action
The PM’s spokesperson also condemned Russia’s “barbaric” overnight attacks on Ukraine, which came shortly after Putin’s conversation with Trump. These fresh assaults highlighted Russia’s continued aggression, even as diplomatic discussions were taking place.
Meanwhile, Keir Starmer reinforced the UK’s commitment during a session in the House of Commons, where he stated that he had reaffirmed Britain’s “unwavering support” for Ukraine in a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier this week. Starmer’s statement made it clear that the UK’s support for Ukraine remains resolute and unshakeable, despite Putin’s demands.
