PM's top security adviser says Europe faces hard winter to keep pressure on Putin
In rare public remarks, Jonathan Powell said now was not the time for European nations to take their "foot off the gas".
Prime Minister's top security advisor Jonathan Powell has warned Europe to brace for a harsh winter if it intends to maintain economic pressure on Russia. Speaking at a conference in Kyiv, Powell stated that Europe's strategy of supporting Ukraine and imposing sanctions on Moscow is proving effective. He emphasized that Russia's escalation is a positive sign that the pressure on President Vladimir Putin is working.
Despite the continent facing severe energy shortages this winter, Powell urged European nations not to ease sanctions prematurely. He also suggested that the US and Europe maintain communication with Putin, despite describing him as a "terrorist." Powell expressed optimism about the situation in Ukraine, citing Russia's failure to achieve territorial goals and the success of Ukrainian defenses.
He noted that Russia has suffered significant casualties and that Ukraine's strikes are reaching deep into Russian territory. Powell emphasized the importance of maintaining economic, military, political, and diplomatic support for Ukraine, as this pressure is crucial to getting Russia to negotiate a settlement.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
