This was stated by Ian Stubbs, the senior military advisor of the Great Britain delegation to the OSCE, during the meeting of the Forum for Security Cooperation in Vienna, Ukrinform reports.
Russia has consistently underestimated the strength and determination of the brave Ukrainian people in defending their homeland. This brutal tactic of missile attacks and drone strikes targeting civilian areas did not succeed in the past when Russia attacked power plants and water pipelines across Ukraine, and it will not succeed now. These actions do not compensate for Russia's defeats on the battlefield, stated the speaker.
Stubbs strongly condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine and highlighted that the war initiated by Putin has left a lasting legacy that will burden millions of people for years to come.
The British diplomat pointed out that Russia is purposefully and systematically attempting to dismantle the foundations of European security. This includes withdrawing from international agreements and treaties while portraying itself as a victim. However, these attempts by the Kremlin are merely desperate efforts to justify the numerous strategic mistakes that have tarnished Russia's once proud global reputation.
The representative of the British mission to the OSCE also expressed condemnation for Russia's plan to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus. This move is viewed as part of the Kremlin's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, aimed at distracting and deterring support for Ukraine.
Stubbs emphasized that Russia should work towards reducing tensions and the risk of miscalculations rather than escalating them. He called on the Belarusian regime to refrain from supporting Russia's efforts to create further instability in the region and to cease its backing of Russia's illegal invasion.
He reassured Ukraine of continued support from Great Britain and its allies. The joint approach of providing Ukraine with the necessary support to defend itself and remove Russian forces from its sovereign territory is seen as the quickest path to achieving a just and lasting peace, according to the senior military adviser of the UK delegation to the OSCE.
On the night of June 1, Russia launched another massive attack on the Ukrainian capital using ballistic missiles. A child lost their life on the eve of World Children's Day, while two adults were also killed, and approximately 10 others sustained injuries. Widespread destruction occurred. Similar shelling, particularly targeting the capital, has become a nearly daily occurrence. These attacks aim to weaken Ukraine's capabilities ahead of an anticipated counteroffensive.