Government Responds to Breach of International Law and Ukrainian Sovereignty
The UK will announce new sanctions against Russia on Tuesday in response to what Foreign Secretary Liz Truss described as a “breach of international law” and an attack on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The announcement follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s order for troops to “maintain peace” in eastern Ukraine, a move tied to his recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent republics. This decision was labelled by Prime Minister Boris Johnson as a “flagrant violation of international law” and a repudiation of the Minsk Agreements, which aimed to address conflict in the region.
During a press conference on Monday, Mr Johnson called the move “a dark sign” and pledged UK support for Ukraine, stating he would speak with President Volodymyr Zelensky to offer assistance.
Ms Truss confirmed on Twitter that new sanctions would be unveiled, emphasising that Putin’s actions must not go unpunished. She reported discussions with EU foreign affairs representative Josep Borrell to ensure coordinated sanctions against the Russian regime, highlighting solidarity with Ukraine. Truss also consulted Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to discuss upcoming sanctions and provide reassurances of UK backing.
Earlier, Ms Truss condemned Russia’s recognition of the two breakaway republics, describing it as a deliberate choice for confrontation over dialogue. She affirmed the UK’s commitment to working alongside allies to hold Russia accountable.
The European Union joined the UK in announcing sanctions, with EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel declaring Russia’s recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk as an illegal act. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg criticised the move, saying it undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty and violates the Minsk Agreements.
In Parliament, Conservative MP Sir Bill Cash drew comparisons between Putin’s recognition of the separatist regions and Germany’s actions before World War II, urging further government statements on the evolving crisis.
Meanwhile, the Royal Navy’s HMS Diamond, initially scheduled to deploy to the Mediterranean on February 17, has faced delays due to Storm Eunice and a technical defect. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the destroyer would undergo minor repairs before resuming its operational preparations.
This critical moment underscores rising tensions and global efforts to address Russia’s escalating aggression against Ukraine.
