Sir Keir Starmer has emphasized that Russia initiated the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and can bring it to an immediate end. His remarks came as Vladimir Putin warned that Western missile deployments into Russia would be viewed as a significant escalation of the war.
The Prime Minister is currently in Washington for talks with President Joe Biden on Friday, where discussions among Ukraine’s allies are centered around potentially granting Ukraine the authority to target military installations within Russia.
Putin, in an interview with Russian state television, claimed that such actions would signify direct involvement of NATO countries—specifically the US and European nations—in the conflict, fundamentally altering its nature.
He further stated, “If that is the case, we will take corresponding decisions based on the threats that will be created to us.”
Responding to Putin’s comments during his flight to the U.S., Starmer firmly reiterated that Russia is responsible for the conflict, declaring, “Russia started this conflict. Russia illegally invaded Ukraine. Russia can end this conflict straight away. To reiterate, it was Russia who started this in the first place. They caused the conflict, they’re the ones who are acting unlawfully.”
The Prime Minister, alongside Foreign Secretary David Lammy, is engaging in a series of diplomatic discussions as Ukraine’s allies assess the implications of Iran increasing its support to Russia.
During a visit to Kyiv, Lammy remarked that this situation “clearly changes the debate,” while meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Following his return from Washington, Starmer will head to Rome on Sunday for a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, as Italy presently holds the rotating presidency of the G7.
In the following week, world leaders are set to convene in New York for the annual United Nations General Assembly.
Traditionally, Western nations have hesitated to permit Ukraine to launch missiles into Russia, fearing it could be seen as provocative and lead to direct military involvement from the US and Europe. However, with the winter months approaching and Russia receiving increased support from Iran, perspectives appear to be shifting.
When asked about the possibility of using missiles, senior officials offered cautious responses. The Prime Minister noted, “There are really important developments likely in the next few weeks and months, both in Ukraine and the Middle East, and therefore a number of tactical decisions ought to be taken.”
He acknowledged visits by key figures, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and David Lammy, to Ukraine as part of crucial diplomatic efforts.
Earlier in the day, Putin had addressed the situation, stating, “Only servicemen of NATO countries can conduct flight missions with these missile systems. Ukrainian servicemen cannot do this. Therefore, this is not about permitting or not permitting the Ukrainian regime to strike Russia with these weapons. This is about whether or not NATO countries take the decision to directly participate in the military conflict.”
This marks Starmer’s second visit to Washington within two months, having previously traveled to the city for the NATO Summit and a White House visit shortly after his election victory.
