Missile Diplomacy: Starmer's Push for Long-Range Weapons to Empower Ukraine

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to intensify diplomatic efforts at a forthcoming summit in London, focused on rallying support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia. This meeting, scheduled for Friday, will feature Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky alongside a coalition of over 20 allied nations, collectively known as the ‘coalition of the willing’, aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s security guarantees in light of potential ceasefire talks.

Zelensky has been advocating for more long-range missiles from Western allies, a plea echoed amid warnings from Russia of potential escalation should such military support be provided. His visit follows notable wins on the diplomatic front, including sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump against Russia and the European Union’s commitment to assist in filling Ukraine’s financial deficits.

During the summit, Starmer plans to leverage Zelensky’s recent successes to maintain pressure on Moscow. Among the attendees will be key figures such as Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte and leaders from Denmark and the Netherlands, with French President Emmanuel Macron participating virtually. Sir Keir’s agenda includes advocating for increased supplies of long-range weapons following Ukraine’s successful attacks—most notably one against a chemical plant in Bryansk, Russia, utilizing British Storm Shadow missiles.

Starmer’s pointed remarks underscore the ongoing tragedy of the conflict, particularly highlighted by recent Russian strikes that resulted in civilian casualties, including children in Kharkiv. In a bid to reinforce Ukraine’s defense capabilities, he will announce an accelerated delivery of 100 additional air defense missiles, part of a larger £1.6bn funding plan established in March.

Moreover, discussions will navigate the complexities of reducing Russian energy supplies and exploring the use of frozen Russian assets to facilitate financial support for Ukraine, although these measures face significant political and legal challenges. The EU, while recognizing Ukraine’s urgent financial needs, hesitated in committing to the proposal of utilizing up to €140bn in frozen assets. Recently, the US has also stepped up its efforts with new sanctions against major Russian oil firms to heighten economic pressure on the Kremlin to engage in ceasefire discussions.

As the war drags on since its initiation in February 2022, where Russia currently holds control over approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, Starmer’s push for long-range missiles may serve as a critical fraught yet crucial step toward altering the dynamics of this protracted conflict.