David Lammy urges bold support for Ukraine amid missile calls

David Lammy, the UK Foreign Secretary, emphasized the need for allies to demonstrate courage in their support for Ukraine as the country seeks permission to use Western long-range missiles against Russian military targets. During a Labour party conference event, he highlighted ongoing discussions among allies regarding how to assist Ukraine as winter approaches, a time expected to be particularly challenging for the nation. Ukraine's ambassador to the UK, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, stressed the importance of lifting restrictions on missile use to protect civilians from Russian attacks. Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has faced relentless bombardment, with missiles often launched from deep within Russian territory. Kyiv argues that the inability to strike back at these launch sites severely limits its defensive capabilities. Despite Ukraine's calls for more aggressive support, Western allies have been cautious, fearing that such actions could escalate into direct conflict with Russia. In a broader context, Lammy reiterated the UK government's commitment to providing £3 billion annually in military aid to Ukraine, asserting that this support would continue indefinitely. He called for an immediate ceasefire from both sides to pave the way for a political resolution to the conflict. The discussions surrounding military aid and strategic support are expected to continue at the upcoming UN General Assembly, where leaders from the UK, US, and Ukraine will convene. The situation remains critical as Ukraine prepares for a harsh winter, with the potential for increased civilian suffering without additional international assistance. The ongoing dialogue among allies reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for a unified response to bolster Ukraine's defense efforts against Russian aggression.