Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Vladimir Putin is "not serious" about peace as Russia continues to wage war in Ukraine. The comment came during a conversation this afternoon with the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb.
The Nordic nation shares a land border with Russia, whose president has expressed anger at Finland joining NATO in 2023.
UK Prepares for Zelensky State Visit
Britain is preparing to host Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky for a state visit in 2027. The event would aim to project solidarity with Ukraine in what will be the fifth year of its war against Russia.
Mr Zelensky has visited the UK some 13 times since the start of the war, most recently to meet Andy Burnham in Downing Street, when he received a guard of honour.
Downing Street Confirms Call
This afternoon a Downing Street spokeswoman confirmed the PM had spoken with President Stubb. The spokesman said: "The Prime Minister spoke to the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, this afternoon. The leaders began by discussing the latest on Ukraine, including the Brussels peace talks last week."
"It was vital that work towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine was prioritised and continued at pace, the leaders agreed, before a wider discussion on European security."
Putin had consistently failed to show he was serious about negotiations, underlining the importance of Ukraine's partners piling on further pressure on Russia to force the Kremlin to engage seriously, the Prime Minister added.
UK-EU Relationship Discussed
"Finally, both discussed the future of the UK-EU relationship. Leading up to the summit later this month, the Prime Minister said he was focused on a deal that delivered for all parties, and ensured a modern relationship that could be built on. They looked forward to speaking again soon."
