MI6 chief exposes Putin's lack of interest in Ukraine peace talks
- Richard Moore delivered a speech highlighting threats to the West, focusing on Russia, China, and Islamist terrorism.
- He criticized Vladimir Putin's intentions regarding peace in Ukraine, emphasizing a lack of evidence for negotiations.
- Moore concluded with reflections on MI6's priorities and praised his successor.
In Istanbul, on September 18, 2025, Richard Moore, the head of MI6, delivered a comprehensive address concerning the various threats facing the West as he prepares to depart from his role. His speech underscored significant geopolitical concerns involving Russia, China, Iran, and the enduring threat of Islamist terrorism. Moore emphasized that during his leadership, the ongoing war in Ukraine, commenced by Russia's invasion in February 2022, had led to extensive casualties and heightened tensions across Europe. He pointed out that these events have fostered a stronger Ukrainian national identity and prompted Sweden and Finland to pursue NATO membership as a response to Russian aggression. During his comments, Moore criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting that he was "stringing the world along" and had no genuine interest in achieving peace in Ukraine. The MI6 chief dismissed the notion of negotiations in the current context, stating unequivocally, "there is absolutely no evidence" to suggest Putin desires a resolution. This statement reflects a broader consensus among Western leaders that Russia's actions are driven more by personal legacy and distorted ideology than by a pursuit of peace. Moreover, Moore addressed the role of other nations and groups in the conflict, highlighting China's support for Russia, particularly through supplying components that enable the war effort. He condemned Iran and North Korea for exacerbating the situation, indicating that such allies hinder progress towards peace. In addition, Moore called for cooperative strategies to address radicalization and terrorism, particularly focusing on the Islamic State and al-Qaida's attempts to reestablish their influence online, reminding nations of the importance of engagement in combating these ideologies. As he concluded his tenure leading MI6, Moore reflected on the agency’s priorities and the evolving global dynamics. He praised his successor, Blaise Metreweli, who will become the agency's first female chief, noting her experience and integration of technological advancements within the agency. Moore encapsulated his departure with a nod to tradition, symbolically returning his tools of the trade while underscoring the need for adaptive strategies in facing contemporary threats.