Prime Minister sends Putin a ‘clear message’ – London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

The Prime Minister has said that wants to send Vladimir Putin a “very clear” message as he flew to Washington for the NATO summit.

Sir Keir Starmer said the NATO summit is an opportunity for the allies to increase support for Ukraine amid Russia’s continued aggression.

Ukrainian support will be top of the agenda at the NATO summit where Sir Keir will meet with the US President Joe Biden.

Sir Keir said, “My message is very, very clear.

“This NATO summit is an opportunity for allies to stand together, to strengthen their resolve, particularly in light of that appalling attack, against Russian aggression,” referencing the barbaric attack on Ukraine’s largest children’s hospital.

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“I’m pleased to have the early opportunity to confirm and reaffirm Labour’s strong support, unshakeable support for NATO.

“We are a founding member, it’s now the 75th anniversary but this is an opportunity to send that message in relation to Russian aggression wherever.

“But that attack … was appalling so that message is even more important than it was before.”

The Prime Minister has also stated that the government want to increase defence spending to 2.5% of gross domestic product, when finances allows.

Sir Keir Starmer said he has a “cast iron commitment to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence to respond to growing threats.”

The government will be conducting a long planned defence review next week to understand in more detail the UK’s spending priorities.

The Defence Secretary John Healey said, “Britain’s commitment to Nato is unshakeable. We cannot have prosperity without security and we must never take our ability to live freely for granted.

“Our Government’s first duty is to keep the country safe. That’s why we will increase defence spending and launch a Strategic Defence Review to ensure we have the capabilities needed to protect the UK now and in the future.

“The Review will also set out defence reforms to secure faster procurement and better value for money.”

Sir Keir said, “There is no more important duty for me as Prime Minister than keeping the people of our country safe.

“At a time when we face multiple threats at home and abroad, we must make sure we are ready to defend ourselves. That’s why I have immediately ordered a root-and-branch review that will secure Britain’s defences for the future.

“Working with our most important partners around the world, our Strategic Defence Review will make sure the UK is sending a clear message to those who seek to undermine peace and democracy – you will not succeed.”