Britain is once again proving its value as an ally to Ukraine. Throughout our fight against Russia and its military, the UK has been at the forefront of international support: pushing for greater sanctions on Russia, arguing for greater economic and military support, and then providing armaments. So it’s great to see Rishi Sunak following the example set by Boris Johnson by agreeing to send Challenger II tanks, along with additional artillery systems and supplies.
Granted, Ukraine has already received more than 300 modernised Soviet tanks from our Western partners, but they are no match for Western-made heavy tanks like the Challenger II. This formidable armoured vehicle will allow Ukraine’s military to smash through the invaders’ lines as we continue to push them out of our country. The Challenger II will become the most modern tank in our arsenal – one which can withstand a direct hit from the Russian T-72s.
The provision of heavy tanks demonstrates the faith that the UK has in Ukraine, both in the spirit of our people and the demonstrated ability of our armed forces. Increasing our advanced combat power is a sign that the West has moved beyond the defeatism and appeasement that many espoused in the early stages of the war. It is a clear policy shift as the West recognises what Ukrainians already know to be true, that we will win this war.
Sadly, there are still those who doubt Ukraine. Those who shamefully call for a peace settlement that recognises Putin’s annexation of Crimean land. Commentators who wish to simply sweep away Russian war crimes and cultural genocide, preferring to sacrifice Ukraine at the altar of ‘peace’. There can be no peace while Russian forces occupy any part of Ukraine. Any ‘deal’ that formalises a Russian foothold in Ukraine will simply guarantee another invasion, an invasion that Russia might be better prepared for.
But be in no doubt: every time Ukraine has asked for help, the UK has answered. From NLAWs to Challenger tanks, the UK has been a key part of ensuring that Russia cannot win. Other countries need to step up to the mark Britain has set, deliver on their promises and show their support for our nation’s sovereignty.
Germany in particular, needs to do far more than it has so far. On several occasions, they have been actively obstructive and held up aid for our nation, even as they have belatedly, grudgingly moved away from their reliance on Russian energy and towards supporting us. Earlier this month Germany – along with France and the US – pledged to send armoured fighting vehicles to Ukraine.
Yet, as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was speaking in Davos earlier this week, he must have known that more could be done. For example, Poland wants to send Ukraine some of its German-made Leopard II tanks, but to do so they need approval from Berlin. Scholz must make up for Germany’s shameful prevarication over this war, including blocking German-made weaponry being provided to Ukraine. One clear sign of a willingness to make up for lost time would be to allow all German-made armaments, weapons systems, tanks and artillery to be provided to Ukraine if countries like Poland want to.
There is time for Germany to change course. For it to be remembered as a staunch ally of Ukraine, like the UK, but that time is running out. At some point, Germany must decide that it will properly commit to helping Ukraine, rather than being dragged along by other Western countries.
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