The UK warns Russia that an invasion of Ukraine would be “strategic”

“KAny move by Russia to undermine the freedom and democracy enjoyed by our partners is a strategic mistake, ”the diplomatic leader warned at a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Latvia today.

In excerpts from his office, Truss argues that “freedom and democracy are not just about survival but a world of prosperity.”

“For that, we will stand with other democracies against the evil actions of Russia,” he promised.

The head of British diplomacy said he would “urge the Allies to unite in the face of any Russian aggression while keeping the communication channels open to explain (…) intentions and values.”

It will ask NATO members to increase their financial commitments to the alliance and support Ukraine’s security.

The UK is currently assisting in the strengthening of military capabilities through Ukraine Operation Orbital, under which the UK has trained more than 21,000 Ukrainian military personnel.

On Monday, Ukraine urged its allies to act quickly to prevent Russia from invading, arguing that the Moscow offensive might be imminent in light of Russian troop movements.

Ukrainian diplomat Dmitry Kuleba has warned Western allies that it is “the best time to act” to “control Russia’s intentions”.

During a press conference, he recalled that Russia had stationed about 115,000 troops on the border with Ukraine, in Crimea, on the peninsula annexed by Moscow in 2014, and in areas controlled by pro-Russian separatists in the country.

In recent weeks, the United States, NATO and the European Union have expressed concern over the deployment of Russian troops on Ukraine’s borders.

Russia has repeatedly denied such plans and accused Ukraine and its Western allies of inciting “provocations.”

Eastern Ukraine has been devastated by the conflict between Kiev and pro-Russian separatists since 2014, which erupted shortly after Moscow annexed Crimea, and claimed more than 13,000 lives.

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