Wed Sep 25 08:36:25 UTC 2024: ## British Foreign Secretary Condemns Putin’s “Imperialism” and “Mafia State” in Fiery UN Speech
**New York, NY** – In a powerful address to the United Nations Security Council, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy delivered a scathing critique of Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling him a modern-day “slave-owner” and accusing his regime of “imperialism.” Lammy, the first Black foreign secretary in British history, invoked his own heritage, stating that he “knows imperialism when he sees it.”
Lammy directly addressed Russia’s representative, stating “We know who you are,” and accused the Russian government of exploiting the “Global South” while acting in its own self-interest. He described the invasion of Ukraine as a power grab to expand a “mafia state” into a “mafia empire,” built on corruption.
Lammy’s speech comes amidst heightened tensions over the potential use of long-range Western missiles, including British-made Storm Shadows, against targets deep inside Russia. While the UK supports their use, the US approval is required.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be in Washington this week to meet with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and present his “victory plan” to defeat Putin. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged that long-range missiles will be discussed, but emphasized that Zelenskyy’s plan encompasses a broader strategic approach to defeating Russian aggression.
This strong stance from the UK comes as Prime Minister Starmer faces criticism over his party’s handling of the Gaza conflict. Meanwhile, the UK government is considering measures to “tighten up the hours of operation” for pubs and clubs, prompting concerns from the hospitality industry.
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