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Keir Starmer Advocates for Increased Support for Ukraine
Labour leader Keir Starmer is set to visit British military personnel stationed near the Russian border, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced support for Ukraine. His remarks come in light of his participation in the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) conference held in Estonia, where he engaged with leaders from various Baltic nations.
During the conference, when questioned about additional actions to assist Ukraine, Starmer noted the “ever-increasing demand for more capability.” He underscored the necessity for Ukraine to acquire as much support as possible to strengthen its defense against Russian aggression. “This demand is understandable, and we have collectively increased our contributions of military equipment to Ukraine,” he stated.
Starmer also highlighted the financial aspect of the ongoing support, pointing out that although significant funding has been raised to aid Ukraine, more resources will be essential in the future. His visit comes after signing an energy partnership agreement with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Bergen.
Speaking alongside Støre and Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal, Starmer articulated the importance of making a compelling economic case for supporting Ukraine domestically. He stated, “It is crucial to convey the significance of Ukraine’s situation and the implications for our own countries if Russia is allowed to succeed.” He believes that explaining the stakes involved is vital for maintaining public support for Ukraine and reinforcing NATO’s position.
Starmer acknowledged the shifting landscape of global security, remarking, “The world we inhabit today differs significantly from that of 10 or 20 years ago. There are positive arguments to be made about the interconnections we are building.” He elaborated on the broader impact of defense spending, indicating that it does not simply operate in isolation but influences technological advancement and collaboration between nations. “Investments in defense have far-reaching effects on cutting-edge technology that can benefit various sectors,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Starmer plans to attend the upcoming JEF summit, where discussions will focus on continued support for Ukraine, the persistent threat posed by Russia, and overall European security concerns. Following the summit, he will visit British troops deployed in the region, whose presence aims to deter potential Russian incursions.
Source
www.theguardian.com