Today I had the honour of closing the House of Commons general debate on Ukraine on behalf of the Opposition, setting out why this moment in the conflict matters so deeply for Ukraine, for Europe and for our own security. I spoke about the very real human and practical consequences of this war, from energy security to cyber attacks, and why the outcome will shape how hostile states judge the resolve of the west.
I made it clear that while everyone wants peace, it cannot come at any cost. Ukraine must be able to decide its own future, and any settlement must be just and lasting, not one that rewards aggression or leaves Ukraine exposed to further attack.
I also argued for stronger action on sanctions, Russian assets and the shadow fleet, because resolve must be matched by enforcement. Above all, I stressed that Putin will not stop simply because we ask him to, and that Britain must continue to act with moral clarity and seriousness so that Ukraine can secure a lasting peace.
