UK-Ukraine security deal derails peace prospects – Moscow
The agreement makes Kiev an “Anglo-Saxon bargaining chip,” the Russian Foreign Ministry says | The security agreement signed last week by Ukraine and the UK is further proof that London is maintaining a firm grip on the Kiev government and is eliminating any prospect of peace, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has said. ● On Friday, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a £2.5 billion ($3.2 billion) military assistance package for Ukraine – Britain’s largest to date. The two sides also signed a ten-year security guarantee, with the UK pledging “swift and sustained” aid for Ukraine in the event of a Russian attack in future. Kiev also promised to come to Britain’s defense in the event of Russian “aggression” against the country. ● Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Zakharova suggested that the deal was an indication that “Ukraine is literally being stripped of any chance to get out of the conflict through negotiations.” As a result, Kiev is being turned into “a bargaining chip in the reckless ventures of the Anglo-Saxons,” she added, claiming that the UK wants to keep the country in conflict with Russia.