Britain avoids conflict with Russia, supports Ukraine’s defense, PM

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed that while the United Kingdom does not seek conflict with Russia, it remains committed to helping Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression. Starmer’s statement came in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who suggested that Western nations’ involvement in providing long-range missiles could escalate the conflict.

On September 12, during a press conference in St. Petersburg, Putin claimed that Ukraine’s ability to strike deep within Russian territory was only possible due to Western-supplied weapons. He warned that if NATO countries allowed Kyiv to use long-range missiles against Russia, it could result in direct conflict between Russia, the US, and European nations, prompting “appropriate decisions” from Moscow.
Speaking to reporters aboard his plane en route to Washington, where he is scheduled to meet with US President Joe Biden today, Starmer reiterated Britain’s stance. He emphasized that Russia had instigated the war and could end it at any time, stating that Ukraine’s right to self-defense is fully supported by the UK. However, Britain is not seeking a direct confrontation with Russia.

The use of Western-supplied missiles by Ukraine, including reports of Storm Shadow missiles from the UK, is expected to be a key topic of discussion between Biden and Starmer during their White House meeting. According to the Guardian, London has granted Kyiv permission to use the long-range missiles, though the UK government has not officially confirmed this.

When asked about the possibility of Ukraine using these missiles to strike within Russian borders, Starmer refrained from providing a direct answer but acknowledged that the matter is under consideration.