Russia would need 100 years to conquer Ukraine at current rate, says David Lammy
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Russia would need 100 years to conquer all of Ukraine if it continued gaining territory at its current “slow” rate, according to the Foreign Secretary. David Lammy said Vladimir Putin could end the conflict tomorrow by withdrawing from Ukraine, adding that the Russian president’s position is “not one of strength” as the invasion has been a “monumental strategic failure”.
Mr Lammy’s remarks came as he updated MPs about the new 100-year partnership deal between the UK and Ukraine. The agreement will set out co-operation between the two countries and includes bolstering military collaboration on maritime security through a new framework covering the Baltic Sea, Black Sea and Azov Sea to deter Russian aggression.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Lammy said: “Putin shows no signs of wanting peace. “He could end this war tomorrow by withdrawing from Ukraine, yet he insists the war will not end until he’s achieved his objectives; objectives which amount to the subjugation of the Ukrainian people.
“This is no basis for a meaningful dialogue and Putin’s actions speak far louder than his twisted words: inhuman strikes on civilians on Christmas Day; dispatching North Korean troops to the front line; wave after wave of attacks on the brave people of Ukraine.”.
Mr Lammy added: “Putin’s position is not one of strength. The invasion has been a monumental strategic failure and pressure is mounting. “Russia’s casualty rate is staggering – the highest number of military casualties the country has suffered since the Second World War.
