Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has branded Vladimir Putin's recent remarks about Alaska as "absurd" and "ridiculous," as tensions between Russia and the West continue to escalate over the war in Ukraine.
During a press conference, Starmer dismissed Putin's suggestion that Alaska, once a Russian territory sold to the US in 1867, could be subject to historical disputes. "This is just another distraction from the real issue—Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine," Starmer said.
The Labour leader reaffirmed the UK's unwavering support for Kyiv, emphasising that Britain must stand firm against Russian aggression. "Putin's regime thrives on sowing chaos and misinformation. We cannot afford to take these provocations seriously," he added.
Starmer's comments come as Western leaders remain vigilant over Putin's geopolitical manoeuvres, with some analysts warning that such rhetoric could signal further destabilisation efforts.
The UK government has also reiterated its commitment to providing military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledging additional support in the coming months.
