World ‘Caught Napping’ by Russia’s Offensive in Ukraine: A Wake-Up Call for Western Allies
The recent intensification of Russia’s offensive in northeast Ukraine has sent shockwaves across the world, with UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps warning that the international community was “caught napping” by the renewed aggression. Shapps called for Western allies to urgently expedite aid to the war-stricken nation, emphasizing that it is far more cost-effective to deter Putin’s forces than to allow them to succeed.
In a blunt message to world leaders, Shapps stated that the situation in Ukraine demands immediate attention. “It’s a lot cheaper to defend and therefore deter Putin here and now than it is to allow him to win,” he asserted during an interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today program. This sentiment reflects the urgency of the situation as Russia’s onslaught continues to escalate, causing thousands of civilians to flee towards major cities like Kharkiv.
Shapps highlighted the delicate nature of the conflict in northeast Ukraine, urging Western allies to provide aid without delay. His rallying cry underscores the critical need for support to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression.
Moreover, Shapps made it clear that the UK stands firmly with Ukraine and will not pressure Kyiv into accepting a peace deal with Russia. “There is no sense at all in which Britain would try to persuade, strong-arm or otherwise, Ukraine into accepting giving up some of their territory,” he affirmed. “What Ukraine does and how it decides to bring this to an end is their business. What I can confirm is that the UK will back Ukraine all the way.”
Shapps’s statements come amidst reports that former UK Prime Minister David Cameron influenced former US President Donald Trump to increase funding for Ukraine, suggesting it could pave the way for a peace deal. Trump’s subsequent support for a US aid package for Ukraine, totaling $60 billion, reflects a significant step in international efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression.
Responding to these reports, Shapps emphasized the importance of US support, stating, “It’s very important that the United States follows the UK’s lead.” He underscored the critical need for armaments and defensive weapons to aid Ukraine in its struggle against Russian forces.
The UK government’s commitment to supporting Ukraine remains unwavering. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman reaffirmed the UK’s stance, stating, “Putin must fail in his illegal war in Ukraine. We will support Ukraine for as long as necessary to repel Russian aggression.”
Military experts warn that Russia’s latest offensive aims not for a grand breakthrough, but to demonstrate its strength and resolve. Dr. Jack Watling, Senior Research Fellow for Land Warfare at RUSI, noted that Russia’s objective is to convince Ukraine of its ability to sustain a relentless advance. With an estimated 510,000 Russian troops engaged in the conflict, Ukraine faces a significant numerical disadvantage.
However, there is hope. Dr. Watling suggests that if Ukraine’s allies act swiftly to replenish its munitions stockpiles, establish a robust training pipeline, and make necessary industrial investments, Russia’s offensive can be blunted. This would provide Ukraine with the breathing space it needs to regain the initiative.
As the crisis deepens, international support for Ukraine remains crucial. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Kyiv underscores America’s commitment to standing by Ukraine in its time of need. Meanwhile, the UK’s Labour Party, represented by Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey, has pledged its full support for increased military aid to Ukraine.
In the face of Russian offensive and aggression, unity among Western allies is essential. Grant Shapps’s warning serves as a wake-up call for the world to act decisively in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is imperative that the international community stands together to confront this brazen violation of international law and ensure that Ukraine receives the assistance it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression.
Author: DA
Source: Daily Express, 14-th of May 2024
