Russian drone attack leaves 40,000 without power, Ukraine battles sportswashing & seizing Russian assets with Lord Ricketts
Feb 2, 2024
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British-Ukrainian sports journalist Andrew Todos and Lord Ricketts discuss the state of Ukrainian sport amid the conflict with Russia and examine the long-term impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine for UK-EU relations. The podcast covers topics such as Russian drone strikes, seizing Russian assets, irregularities in Russian election signatories, ongoing legal processes around Russian war crimes, finding joy amid war, disagreement over the sale of Chelsea Football Club, reimagining national security, and the value of diplomacy and international correspondence.
The report emphasizes the need for pragmatic cooperation between the UK and the EU to address the long-term impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on UK-EU relations.
The legal challenges and complexities of using frozen Russian assets as a source of funding for Ukraine's reconstruction are acknowledged, with ongoing discussions within the UK government to overcome these obstacles.
Enforcing and monitoring the comprehensive range of sanctions imposed on Russia is crucial in limiting its resources for the war and preventing circumvention by other countries.
Deep dives
The Impact of Russia's Invasion on Ukraine and UK-EU Relations
The report highlights the significant impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on UK-EU relations and the need for pragmatic cooperation to address the common threat. It emphasizes the effectiveness of ad hoc cooperation between the UK and the EU in the face of the war. The report also discusses the importance of sanctions in limiting Russia's resources for the war, with the Foreign Secretary suggesting the possibility of using frozen assets or their interest to support Ukraine. The legal challenges and potential obstacles to implementing such measures are acknowledged. The report further explores the potential for UK-EU collaboration in the reconstruction of Ukraine and the implications for the long-term UK-EU foreign security relationship.
Pragmatic Cooperation and the Context of War
The report highlights how the war in Ukraine has altered the context and dynamics of UK-EU relations. The crisis has prompted practical cooperation and the temporary setting aside of disagreements to address the common threat posed by Russia's invasion. While acknowledging that the level of cooperation is not at pre-Brexit levels, the report emphasizes the need to make the best of the current situation and the effective ways in which the UK and the EU have worked together in response to the war.
Funding Reconstruction and Overcoming Legal Challenges
The report discusses the possibility of using frozen Russian assets or the interest accrued from those assets as a source of funding for the reconstruction of Ukraine. It highlights the legal challenges and complexities involved in seizing and selling the assets, as well as the potential impact on the stability of the financial system. The report acknowledges ongoing discussions and efforts within the UK government to find ways to overcome these challenges and utilize the assets for the benefit of Ukraine's recovery.
Addressing Sanctions and Circumvention
The report acknowledges the comprehensive range of sanctions imposed on Russia by the UK and the EU, which have played a crucial role in limiting Russia's resources for the war. It stresses the importance of enforcing these sanctions and combating circumvention by countries like the UAE, China, and Turkey. The report also highlights the need for continued efforts in monitoring and addressing attempts to evade sanctions and ensure their effectiveness in pressuring Russia.
Importance of Stamp Out Corruption in Ukraine
Stamping out corruption in Ukraine is crucial for the country's progress and international support. Corruption has been a significant issue in Ukraine, impacting its reputation and hindering private sector investment. The government, with strong public pressure, aims to demonstrate a commitment to combat corruption to show readiness for joining NATO and the EU. By doing so, Ukraine can attract foreign funds and ensure their proper utilization for reconstruction and development, avoiding enrichment by oligarchs.
Need for International Support and Financial Commitment
The international community, including the UK and the EU, plays a vital role in supporting Ukraine both militarily and financially. It is essential to maintain a strong defense and provide weapons to enhance Ukraine's security and deter potential aggression. However, the massive destruction in Ukraine requires substantial financial support, including contributions from the private sector. The UK and the EU can work together to mobilize funds and ensure transparency in their usage. Multi-year commitments and strategic planning are necessary to provide long-term stability and help Ukraine reconstruct and develop.
Today, we bring you the latest updates from across Ukraine, discuss the state of Ukrainian sport with British-Ukrainian sports journalist Andrew Todos and Dom Nicholls interviews Lord Ricketts on a new report examining the long-term impact of Russia’s invasion for UK-EU relations.
Contributors:
David Knowles (Head of Audio Development). @DJKnowles22 on Twitter.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on Twitter.
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on Twitter.
Andrew Todos from Zorya Londonsk, Ukrainian football expert. @zoryalondonsk on Twitter.
Live Event:
Join us online at the US Embassy in London for a special live recording of Ukraine: The Latest: