In a pointed foreign policy address delivered at the Policy Exchange think tank, Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, expressed strong criticism of US President Donald Trump's approach to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Badenoch warned that Trump's efforts to negotiate peace would simply 'reward' Russian President Vladimir Putin for his actions during the invasion of Ukraine, characterising such outcomes as detrimental to global stability.

Badenoch highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, "An end to the war is being negotiated while a fifth of Ukrainian territory is under enemy occupation." She cautioned that if aggression is not adequately addressed, it risks being perceived as acceptable, stating, "The danger is that aggression does not merely go unpunished, but ends up rewarded," emphasising that this could embolden Russia and other authoritarian regimes.

In her address, Badenoch took specific issue with Trump's comments labelling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a 'dictator', asserting that it is Putin who fits that description. The implications of these remarks reflect broader concerns about the interpretation of leadership and governance in conflicts involving authoritarian regimes.

The Conservative leader further underscored the importance of upcoming diplomatic engagements, specifically referencing Prime Minister Keir Starmer's scheduled visit to the White House later in the week. Badenoch described it as "absolutely critical" for Starmer to persuade Trump against aligning with the Kremlin's narratives and strategies.

Badenoch also presented her views on military readiness and defence spending, arguing that the former target of 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2030, as established by the prior Conservative administration, was no longer sufficient in the current geopolitical climate. She asserted that significant adjustments in defence policy are necessary to adapt to the evolving global landscape marked by increasing tensions and uncertainties.

The remarks by Badenoch highlight a critical moment in UK foreign policy, coinciding with pivotal discussions among world leaders as they navigate the complexities of international relations and security in a time of significant conflict.

Source: Noah Wire Services