Chris Mason, a correspondent in Washington, shares insights from Prime Minister Starmer's visit regarding Ukraine's support. Emily Thornberry, the new Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, discusses her vision for increased internationalism among MPs. They delve into the complexities of military support for Ukraine, the urgency of uniting against Russian aggression, and the ethical considerations surrounding arms sales. The conversation also touches on the impact of past UK leadership decisions and the implications for global alliances.
Keir Starmer's Washington visit focuses on unifying Western support for Ukraine amid concerns of escalating tensions with Russia.
Emily Thornberry aims to enhance international cooperation and accountability in foreign policy, advocating for a globally-minded UK Parliament post-Brexit.
Deep dives
Keir Starmer's Diplomatic Visit to Washington
Keir Starmer's primary goal during his trip to Washington is to foster greater support for Ukraine among Western allies, particularly regarding the use of advanced missile systems by Ukraine against Russian targets. This visit comes amid concerns over the complexities of such military aid and the potential for escalating tensions with Russia. Starmer's discussions with U.S. leadership are aimed at securing a unified approach to assist Ukraine and determining the implications of using these missiles. The rapid pace of diplomatic engagement signals an urgency given the looming challenges Ukraine faces as winter approaches.
Potential Risks of Missile Support
The potential authorization for Ukraine to use Storm Shadow missiles raises significant concerns regarding the implications for NATO's involvement in the conflict. Analysts suggest that should these missiles be deployed, it may lead to a perception that NATO countries are directly participating in combat against Russia, complicating the geopolitical landscape. The hesitance from Western allies stems from fears of an escalation in hostilities, with Russian President Putin asserting that such actions could invite retaliation against Western interests. This delicate balance reflects ongoing tensions and the high stakes involved in decision-making regarding military support.
Global Reactions to Russia's Provocations
Recent escalations in rhetoric from Russia, including accusations of espionage leading to the expulsion of British diplomats, create a charged atmosphere ahead of diplomatic discussions. These sentiments are largely seen as an effort by Putin to frame Western support for Ukraine as a direct threat. This situation underscores the need for careful communication from Western leaders to avoid exacerbating tensions while strategically supporting Ukraine's defense initiatives. Maintaining unity in response to Russian aggression remains imperative as leaders navigate this complex geopolitical landscape.
The Role of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee
Newly appointed Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, Emily Thornberry, emphasizes her goal to foster international cooperation and hold the government accountable for its foreign policies. She aims to enhance the committee's focus on global issues, highlighting the necessity of Britain's re-engagement with the international community post-Brexit. Thornberry's vision includes encouraging parliamentary members to adopt a more globally-minded perspective, utilizing the diverse backgrounds within the UK Parliament to strengthen diplomatic ties. She acknowledges the importance of understanding historical contexts and the implications of international relations as part of her leadership strategy.
Today, we discuss the Prime Minister’s visit to the White House to discuss the US and UK’s support for Ukraine.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said Russia had started the war in Ukraine and could end it "straight away”. Adam is joined by Chris Mason, who is in Washington with the Prime Minister ahead of his meeting with President Joe Biden.
We also speak to Emily Thornberry, the new Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee. In her first interview since becoming Chair, she speaks about how she plans to use her new role, the UK’s support for Ukraine, and why she’d like more MPs to be ‘internationalists’.
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Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Miranda Slade with Gemma Roper and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Frank McWeeny. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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