Russia Started the War, and It Can End It Straight Away, Starmer Says

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that Russia started the war against Ukraine and can end it “straight away”, following Vladimir Putin’s warnings that the use of Western arms in Russia would be regarded as NATO’s involvement in the war.

Putin stated on Russian state television that such actions would “mean nothing other than the direct participation of NATO countries—the US and European countries—in the war in Ukraine.”

“If that is the case, we will take corresponding decisions based on the threats that will be created to us.”

Starmer, currently in Washington for discussions with US President Joe Biden as Kyiv’s allies consider permitting Ukraine to strike targets within Russia, addressed Putin’s comments.

When asked about Putin’s remarks during his flight to Washington, Starmer maintained a firm stance, repeatedly underscoring that Russia started the war. “Russia started this conflict. Russia illegally invaded Ukraine. Russia can end this conflict straight away,” he asserted. He later added, “To reiterate, it was Russia who started this in the first place. They caused the conflict, they’re the ones who are acting unlawfully.”

Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy are engaging in a series of international diplomatic efforts as Ukraine’s allies deliberate their response to Iran’s increased weapons support for Russia. Lammy told the BBC that this development “clearly changes the debate” while visiting Kyiv with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

There has been longstanding hesitation about allowing Ukraine to fire Western missiles into Russia due to fears of provoking a broader conflict involving the U.S., European countries, and other allies. However, with winter approaching and Russia receiving additional support from Iran, perspectives are evolving.

“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,” Starmer remarked, noting that both Blinken and Lammy had recently been to Ukraine. “They’re obviously with us to report into the process on a really important joint trip.”

Earlier, it was reported that Britain has already decided to allow Ukraine to hit targets in Russia with long-range Storm Shadow missiles.