🇺🇦 Ukraine

• Third Anniversary of Ukraine’s Resistance: The session marked the third anniversary of Ukraine’s resistance against Russia’s invasion, with the UK reaffirming its unwavering support for Ukraine.

• Diplomatic Efforts: The UK is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, with Foreign Secretary David Lammy preparing to meet President Trump in Washington to discuss a peaceful resolution.

• Military and Economic Support: The UK has committed £3 billion annually in military aid to Ukraine, with an additional £2.26 billion over the next two years. The government has also imposed significant economic sanctions, denying Russia access to over $400 billion and targeting over 100 entities, including 40 oil tankers.

• Security Guarantees: The UK is ready to contribute to future security guarantees for Ukraine, including the potential deployment of British troops if necessary, to ensure Ukraine’s security against future aggression.

• Partnerships and Defense Spending: A historic 100-year partnership with Ukraine was signed, emphasizing long-term collaboration. The UK is urged to increase its defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030, aligning with NATO commitments.

• Humanitarian Concerns: The UK continues to support Ukrainians displaced by the war, with calls for more permanent residency options and support for Ukrainian children affected by the conflict.

• Condemnation of Russian Actions: There was strong condemnation of Russia’s actions, including the massacre in Bucha and the abduction of Ukrainian children, with calls for accountability and justice.

• Cross-Party Support: The session highlighted the cross-party support in the UK Parliament for Ukraine, with members from various parties expressing solidarity and rejecting any appeasement of Russia.

• United Nations Resolution: The UK co-sponsored a UN resolution proposed by Ukraine for a just and lasting peace, which passed despite opposition from Russia and the United States.

• Future Negotiations: Emphasis was placed on the necessity of Ukrainian involvement in any future peace negotiations, reiterating the principle of “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.”

The session exhibits a low level of disagreement among the members of parliament. The discussion is focused primarily on the support for Ukraine against Russia’s invasion, with members from different parties expressing a unified stance on the issue. The key objective seems to be reinforcing the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, discussing increased defense spending, and the need for a peaceful solution that involves Ukraine directly. There are no significant points of contention or opposition voiced during the session; rather, there is a consistent theme of solidarity and a call for stronger actions against Russia.

Examples: - The Foreign Secretary, Mr David Lammy, makes a detailed statement on the UK’s support for Ukraine, including military aid, sanctions, and diplomatic efforts. His call to action is supported broadly by members across different parties. - The shadow Foreign Secretary, Priti Patel, expresses gratitude for the statement and reinforces the House’s united stance with Ukraine, emphasizing continued support and urging no reduction in sanctions. - Other MPs from various parties, including Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat, SNP, and even smaller parties like the Green Party and UUP, all echo the sentiments of standing firmly with Ukraine and criticize Russia’s actions. For instance, Calum Miller from the Liberal Democrats supports the government’s approach and suggests increases in defense spending. - Questions and comments are directed towards enhancing the UK’s and Europe’s response to the situation, such as increasing defense spending, supporting Ukrainian refugees in the UK, and using frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, all of which receive affirmations from the Foreign Secretary without significant contention.

The only minor instance that could be perceived as disagreement is the indirect reference to concerns about the US’s stance, especially regarding President Trump’s comments and actions. However, this is not presented as a point of disagreement within the House itself but rather a concern over external actions. The session remains focused on domestic and collaborative efforts to support Ukraine without internal disagreements on the policy direction or the level of support.