In a powerful and defiant speech, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has declared that Vladimir Putin's “smug smile must be wiped away”, signalling a significant hardening of Britain's stance against Russian aggression.
The senior Cabinet minister used his first major address at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) conference in London to issue a stern warning to the Kremlin, vowing that the UK would stand with Ukraine for the long haul.
A New Chapter in British Support
Mr Shapps outlined a new phase in the UK's support, moving from simply helping Ukraine survive the invasion to actively ensuring its long-term security and success. “We will be with them for the long haul,” he asserted, promising a “100-year partnership” with the war-torn nation.
He praised the incredible resilience of the Ukrainian people and military, whose fierce resistance has “rumbled” Putin's initial plan for a swift victory. The Defence Secretary confirmed that the UK's military support, including the training of tens of thousands of Ukrainian recruits, would continue unabated.
Confronting the Russian Threat
The minister's language was notably more confrontational than that of his predecessor, Ben Wallace. He directly addressed the Russian president, stating that the era of his “easy wins” and the “smug smile” that accompanies them is over.
“With Britain’s help, the Ukrainians are pushing the Russian navy back in the Black Sea, they are opening up a grain export route and they are making a mockery of Putin’s blockade,” Shapps told the audience, highlighting the tangible successes achieved with British backing.
A Unified Front Against Aggression
Emphasising the global stakes, Shapps framed the conflict as a pivotal battle between democracy and authoritarianism. He warned that a victory for Putin would embolden other aggressive regimes across the world, making steadfast support for Ukraine not just a moral duty but a crucial act of global security.
The speech solidifies the UK's position at the forefront of international efforts to support Ukraine, promising not just immediate military aid but a lasting commitment to a free and sovereign Ukrainian state.
