UK Foreign Secretary Criticizes Russia's Stance on Ukraine at G20 Meeting
David Lammy calls for respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and adherence to UN principles during sharp remarks in South Africa.
David Lammy, the UK Foreign Secretary, addressed the G20 Foreign Ministerial Meeting in South Africa, where he expressed strong criticism of Russia's approach to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Lammy stated that Russia has 'learned nothing' from the war, highlighting the current 'crucial juncture' in the conflict.
He emphasized that a 'just and lasting peace' must be consistent with the UN Charter and should reject 'Tsarist imperialism'.
In his remarks, Lammy pointedly criticized Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, accusing him of presenting a 'logic of imperialism dressed up as realpolitik'.
He remarked, 'Mature countries learn from their colonial failures, but I'm afraid to say that Russia has learned nothing.' He expressed disappointment at not hearing any acknowledgment from Lavrov regarding Ukraine's sovereignty or any sympathy for the victims of the conflict.
Lammy contended that for any lasting peace to be achieved, Russia must demonstrate a willingness to respect Ukraine's sovereignty and engage in a manner that adheres to the principles outlined in the UN Charter.
He stated, 'If Putin is serious about a lasting peace, it means finding a way forward which respects Ukraine's sovereignty and provides credible security guarantees.'
In related developments, UK Defence Secretary John Healey affirmed that Britain will support Ukraine both 'on the battlefield and the negotiating table'.
Healey highlighted the need to involve Ukraine in final peace discussions, while maintaining that the ongoing war remains a pressing concern as Russian military actions continue.
He acknowledged the extensive support from the UK and Norway in response to perceived threats from Russia, particularly in Arctic regions, and described the ongoing discussions around peacekeeping forces as 'jumping ahead of ourselves'.
The statements by Lammy and Healey come amid international efforts to navigate the complexities of the conflict, as Ukraine grapples with ongoing military aggression from Russia.
It reflects a broader sentiment within the UK government regarding the necessity for Russia to engage meaningfully in discussions around peace, with substantial backing for Ukraine from Western allies.
Lammy stated that Russia has 'learned nothing' from the war, highlighting the current 'crucial juncture' in the conflict.
He emphasized that a 'just and lasting peace' must be consistent with the UN Charter and should reject 'Tsarist imperialism'.
In his remarks, Lammy pointedly criticized Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, accusing him of presenting a 'logic of imperialism dressed up as realpolitik'.
He remarked, 'Mature countries learn from their colonial failures, but I'm afraid to say that Russia has learned nothing.' He expressed disappointment at not hearing any acknowledgment from Lavrov regarding Ukraine's sovereignty or any sympathy for the victims of the conflict.
Lammy contended that for any lasting peace to be achieved, Russia must demonstrate a willingness to respect Ukraine's sovereignty and engage in a manner that adheres to the principles outlined in the UN Charter.
He stated, 'If Putin is serious about a lasting peace, it means finding a way forward which respects Ukraine's sovereignty and provides credible security guarantees.'
In related developments, UK Defence Secretary John Healey affirmed that Britain will support Ukraine both 'on the battlefield and the negotiating table'.
Healey highlighted the need to involve Ukraine in final peace discussions, while maintaining that the ongoing war remains a pressing concern as Russian military actions continue.
He acknowledged the extensive support from the UK and Norway in response to perceived threats from Russia, particularly in Arctic regions, and described the ongoing discussions around peacekeeping forces as 'jumping ahead of ourselves'.
The statements by Lammy and Healey come amid international efforts to navigate the complexities of the conflict, as Ukraine grapples with ongoing military aggression from Russia.
It reflects a broader sentiment within the UK government regarding the necessity for Russia to engage meaningfully in discussions around peace, with substantial backing for Ukraine from Western allies.
