Britain must now be a voice for Ukraine
When the histories of the Ukraine war are written, Britain's actions at its outbreak are likely to be viewed as pivotal to its outcome. When other capitals dithered, London supplied military aid, including NLAW anti-tank weapons, and rallied support around the world.
This conflict now appears to be approaching a possible conclusion, with Donald Trump declaring his intention to open negotiations with counterpart Vladimir Putin. Notably, Europe does not appear to be set to play a significant role in the negotiations.
Diplomats across the continent have made clear their displeasure at this outcome, but the simple reality of hard power is that he who pays the piper calls the tune. European capitals have spent years talking as if this were the second coming of 1938, on the precipice of a potential continental war of cataclysmic proportions. With a few noble exceptions such as Warsaw, however, they have not backed these words with the requisite spending on defence. If Donald Trump feels able to unilaterally decide the future of Europe, it is because Europe has passed up the opportunity to decide it for itself.
With that said, it is clear that Ukraine, at least, should be allowed some say in its future. President Zelensky has stated that it will not accept any deal negotiated without Kyiv's participation. While there is little doubting its will to fight on, there are legitimate questions about its ability to do so without the support provided by the United States.
Just as Britain stepped up at the beginning of this conflict, it should step up again as it approaches its potential end. Our role now is to be a voice for Ukraine and its interests, to ensure that these are not lost in the rush to strike a bargain, and that preparation is made for its reconstruction.
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