Coffee House Shots Is Starmer doing enough for Ukraine?
Jan 16, 2025
Mark Galeotti, head of Mayak Intelligence and honorary professor at UCL, offers insight into Keir Starmer's significant visit to Ukraine, highlighting a new long-term partnership. They discuss the balance of military support amid rising tensions with Russia and Trump's potential impact on peace talks. Additionally, Galeotti examines political shifts in Westminster prompted by Kemi Badenoch's critique of Tory leadership and the government's decision to launch inquiries into grooming gangs, showcasing the evolving political landscape.
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A Symbolic Treaty
- Starmer's 100-year treaty with Ukraine is more symbolic than substantive, focusing on long-term goals like scientific partnerships.
- It includes valuable military cooperation but other aspects seem like minor initiatives given the current context.
Strategic Visit
- Starmer's visit to Kyiv before Trump's inauguration reassures Ukraine of continued Western support.
- It also asserts British leadership amidst Macron's attempts to position himself as a prominent European figure.
A More Cautious Approach
- While Starmer's support for Ukraine isn't drastically different from the Tories', his approach seems more cautious.
- The initial boldness of Johnson and Wallace, particularly in leading military aid, may be lacking under the current leadership.