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The UK government has voiced its opposition to a recent deal struck by former US President Donald Trump with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which involves the United States purchasing millions of tonnes of diesel fuel from Russia. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting expressed his stance during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Broadcasting House, highlighting that the deal emerged amid the context of the upcoming US elections in November and global pressures on politicians to address soaring living costs.
Streeting emphasized that instead of engaging in agreements that could potentially benefit Russia financially, the US and its allies should prioritize intensifying efforts to end the conflict swiftly and ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty is protected. The diesel purchase is seen as a move by Trump to reduce fuel prices in America, a response to inflation resulting from ongoing tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticized the arrangement, warning that it would provide Moscow with funds to procure military equipment necessary to prolong the war.
In reaction to Zelensky’s comments, Trump suggested that Ukraine should consider a change in leadership to someone capable of negotiating a resolution with Russia. Responding to this, Streeting maintained that the decision on Ukraine’s leadership rests with its people but praised Zelensky for his courage, skill, and integrity in managing the nation’s defense efforts. He firmly placed the responsibility for the conflict on President Putin and his expansionist ambitions. Streeting also acknowledged that disputes between Washington and Kyiv are not new, noting the UK’s role in mediating to keep the alliance united.
Further stressing the strong support the US provides to Ukraine, the Defence Secretary detailed the multifaceted aid that encompasses weapons procurement, intelligence sharing, and diplomatic leadership. Complementing this view, Conservative shadow chancellor Andrew Griffith condemned Trump’s call for Zelensky’s removal as misguided and criticized the diesel deal for conveying the wrong message. Griffith stated, “If you want a peaceful world, you don’t do that sort of deal – you properly fund defence and prepare for war.” Both Griffith and Streeting highlighted the necessity for robust defence strategies, with Streeting articulating that the UK must anticipate a potential Russian attack on NATO by 2030, advocating strength as the best deterrent while asserting that the UK does not seek conflict.
Addressing defence funding, Streeting revealed plans to address a £4.7 billion shortfall in the Defence Investment Plan through the forthcoming Budget. He also announced intentions for the government to outline a strategy to increase defence spending to 3.5% of national income by 2035 in next year’s Spending Review. While the goal of allocating 3% of GDP to defence by 2030 has been discussed, Streeting cautioned that such commitments must be accompanied by clear funding plans to avoid economic repercussions such as increased borrowing costs
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