Moscow: A Russian news anchor ridiculed the British Army’s capabilities following UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s commitment to providing military assistance to Ukraine. The remarks came after Starmer suggested European troops could play a role in enforcing a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.
Russian Broadcaster’s Remarks on UK Military Strength
Dmitry Kiselev, a well-known pro-Kremlin propagandist, dismissed the UK’s military contribution as insignificant. Speaking on Russian state television, Kiselev mockingly claimed that the entire British Army, along with some French troops, could fit inside Wembley Stadium. His comments, reported by The Mirror, were made during a discussion with Russian MP Vyacheslav Nikonov about Western military aid to Ukraine.
Nikonov echoed Kiselev’s sentiment, arguing that European nations lack the military strength and economic capacity to sustain long-term support for Ukraine. He asserted that while European leaders continue to pledge financial and military aid, they lack the industrial infrastructure to fulfill their commitments. Nikonov also suggested that the United States could eventually withdraw its support, leaving Ukraine without sufficient backing.
UK’s Military Commitment and Financial Aid to Ukraine
The British Armed Forces, as of April 2024, comprise approximately 183,230 personnel, including 37,780 in the Royal Navy (including the Royal Marines), 110,300 in the Army, and 35,140 in the Royal Air Force. Despite the criticisms from Russia, the UK has remained steadfast in its support for Ukraine.
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During a press conference, Starmer unveiled a £1.6 billion UK export finance package aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s air defense. The deal includes the purchase of 5,000 air defense missiles produced in Belfast. Starmer emphasized that the West is at a crucial turning point and cannot afford to hesitate in supporting Ukraine. European leaders have also pledged to continue supplying arms and imposing further sanctions on Russia.
Zelensky and Trump’s Diplomatic Rift
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently attended high-level meetings in London with Starmer and other European leaders before meeting King Charles at Sandringham. These discussions followed a diplomatic dispute in Washington, where former U.S. President Donald Trump accused Zelensky of “playing with World War Three” and not showing sufficient gratitude for American military assistance.
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Despite tensions, Zelensky has repeatedly expressed appreciation for U.S. aid and has shown a willingness to engage with Trump’s administration. A proposed critical minerals contract between Ukraine and the U.S. was expected to be signed in Washington. However, the diplomatic row has stalled negotiations, leaving the future of the deal uncertain.
