British Defense Secretary Wallace warns of the cruelty of the Russian regime. "History teaches that Russia can be very brutal towards its own people," he says. At the same time, like US Secretary of State Blinken before him, he makes it clear: Ukraine alone decides on negotiations.
In view of the jubilant scenes after the liberation of the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has warned of caution. "History teaches that Russia can be very brutal against its own people," Wallace said in London. "If they need more cannon fodder, they'll get it," Wallace said, referring to the recent mobilization in Russia.
He also referred to the planned military exercises at Russian schools. "That's the way the regime we're dealing with." The recapture of Kherson shows Ukraine's extraordinary capabilities and raises questions for the people of Russia as to whether the war is worth all the hardships and sacrifices.
Now Russia will announce everywhere that one should be grateful for the withdrawal from the big city. "No, you shouldn't, Russia shouldn't have done that in February," Wallace said, referring to the attack on February 24. "First of all, we shouldn't be grateful when a thief returns stolen goods - after all, that's what Russia did," the minister said.
Whether Ukraine now wants to start negotiations is up to her alone, Wallace said. This puts him in line with the USA. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressed on Saturday that only Kyiv would decide on the timing and subject matter of possible negotiations with Russia. He also commended the achievements around Kherson as a further testament to the remarkable courage of the armed forces and people of Ukraine, as well as the strong US and world support. The security, humanitarian and economic aid will be continued "as long as necessary".
Blinken also sharply criticized Russia for continuing to "brutally treat" Ukraine -- particularly with its targeted campaign to destroy energy infrastructure. The attacks would have a terrible impact on civilians across Ukraine. The US is determined to help Ukraine defend and replace and repair critical infrastructure.
