The UK Is 'Not Enthusiastic' About The Ukraine Conflict. The Invasion Of Russia Can Be Stopped.
Ben Wallace, the UK Defence Secretary, is in Europe to drum up support for sanctions on Russia and backing for Ukraine amid fears of a new invasion.
Mr Wallace has also stated that he will be seeing Russia's Defense Minister, Sergei Shoigu, in the near future. However, he is lowering hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough. He told the BBC that there is still a "chance" that Russia will not invade, but he added, "I'm not optimistic."
According to one foreign ambassador, the UK's response to Russia's military buildup has been "more muscular than others."
Over the last week, the United Kingdom has sent Ukraine with 2,000 light anti-tank weaponry as well as personnel to assist in training. However, not all NATO partners are ready to follow suit. Mr Wallace wishes to assist them in changing their minds. Mr Wallace's first stop, the Netherlands, is now considering deploying body armor and sniper guns to Ukraine. Others, on the other hand, appear hesitant.
The new German administration is continuing to defy the pressure.
Christine Lambrecht, Germany's new defense minister, cautioned that arming Ukraine may "exacerbate" the crisis during a press conference with Mr Wallace in Berlin.
Both Poland and Latvia have publicly chastised Germany's position. Instead, Berlin is sending Ukraine "non-lethal" supplies, including as field clinics and 5,000 military helmets.
Mr Wallace planned to "put some lead in their pencil," according to a defense source.
He remains optimistic that Germany will back harsh economic measures.
He sees the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which is being built to bring Russian gas to Europe, as one of the most important negotiating pieces in any sanctions package. Germany imports over 40% of its gas from Russia.
Under pressure from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Poland, Germany's new government has agreed to consider closing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline's taps if President Putin uses military force against Ukraine. "Nord Stream 2 is a legitimate piece of leverage that we should utilize for the greater advantage of all European allies," Ben Wallace said.