Starmer Calls Allies to Complete Russia Asset Plan for Ukraine Support

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UK's Call for Unity and Action on Russian Assets

Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has issued a strong appeal to international allies, urging them to "finish the job" on frozen Russian assets. This call is aimed at leveraging these assets to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities. During a meeting of the so-called "Coalition of the Willing" in London, Sir Keir emphasized the importance of this initiative as the group of over 30 countries pledged support for Kyiv.

The Prime Minister described Vladimir Putin's demands for Ukrainian land as "ludicrous," stating that they are a "non-starter." He highlighted the need for increased provision of weapons by the coalition ahead of a potentially harsh winter, which could see Moscow targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure.

The Coalition of the Willing is considering plans to cripple Russia's economy by removing its oil and gas from the global market. Additionally, the group is exploring ways to use billions in frozen assets to fund Ukraine's defenses. This strategy aims to ensure that the costs of Russia's actions in Ukraine are borne by Russia itself.

Strengthening Ukraine's Defenses

Sir Keir met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in No 10 before both leaders joined a call with the wider Coalition of the Willing, which is also led by French President Emmanuel Macron. In his address to Mr. Zelensky, Sir Keir reaffirmed the UK's commitment as a close supporter and ally.

During the call, the PM stressed the necessity of agreeing to "finish the job" on Russia's sovereign assets and unlocking funding to support Ukraine. He expressed the UK's readiness to move in tandem with the EU to drive this forward as quickly as possible, ensuring that funds flow to Ukraine.

Sir Keir also encouraged allies to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses to provide long-range capability. He mentioned the importance of working on security guarantees, including the establishment of a multinational force for Ukraine that would be ready to uphold a future ceasefire.

Zelensky's Warning and Stance

Zelensky warned that Russia is pushing Ukraine towards a "humanitarian disaster" and urged allies not to forget "the issues of territorial integrity." He emphasized that any trading of lands must not reward the aggressor or encourage future aggression. Zelensky stated that it is crucial not to give Russia any reason to believe they can end the war with an unfair outcome.

"Only a strong and fair solution to end the war will really work. Please support us in this," Mr. Zelensky said.

Strategic Plans for the Rest of the Year

Sir Keir outlined a clear plan for the rest of the year regarding supporting Ukraine after the meeting. Speaking at the Foreign Office in London, he detailed three key areas of focus:

  • First, the UK will act to take Russian oil and gas off the global market. Last week, the UK became the first country to sanction all of Russia's oil majors. On Wednesday, the US acted decisively to join the UK, with further sanctions from the EU. These actions are intended to choke off funding for Russia's war machine.
  • Second, the UK is determined to push forward with progress on Russia's sovereign assets to unlock billions to help finance Ukraine's defense. The bill for Russia's destruction in Ukraine should be paid by Russia. Therefore, the UK wants to move ahead at speed with the work needed to deliver reparation loans and get the funds flowing to Ukraine.
  • Third, the UK is strengthening Ukraine's air defense to protect its civilians and energy infrastructure. Sir Keir announced that the UK is accelerating its program to provide Ukraine with more than 5,000 lightweight multirole missiles, creating 200 jobs and supporting 700 existing roles at Thales in Belfast.

Pivotal Months Ahead

Sir Keir emphasized that the coming months are pivotal for the security of the UK and its NATO allies. He outlined the Coalition of the Willing's planned measures, stating that they will keep up the military pressure on Putin through the continued provision of long-range capabilities.

While now is the time to prioritize pressure, the UK will also continue its work on security guarantees, including the multinational force for Ukraine to uphold a just and lasting peace when that day finally comes.

"Because, and I say it again, Ukraine's future is our future. What happens in the weeks and months ahead is pivotal for the security of the United Kingdom and all our allies across NATO and beyond. So, we are determined to act now, to dial up the pressure on Putin and finally bring him to the negotiating table in good faith."

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