LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE
UK PM Keir Starmer Avoids Details on Ukraine's Missile Use
Starmer refrains from operational specifics after US grants Ukraine missile use against Russia
19 November 2024 · 20:59 UTC
US President Joe Biden recently approved Ukraine's request to use the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), responding to Russia's deployment of North Korean troops.
The UK has supplied Ukraine with Storm Shadow missiles and supports easing usage restrictions.
Putin had warned that allowing Ukraine to use these missiles would mean NATO was engaging in war with Moscow.
In the UK parliament, it was questioned whether Britain would follow the US lead, with junior defense minister Maria Eagle affirming alignment with allied strategies.
Starmer asserted the importance of continued support for Ukraine to prevent a Russian victory.
He confirmed he had not spoken to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and had no plans to do so.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy, speaking after a UN Security Council meeting, also declined to discuss British missiles, citing operational security concerns.
He emphasized coordination with President Biden in strengthening Ukraine's position amid inquiries about potential implications of a Donald Trump presidency.