Russian President Condemns UK Proposal Amid Ongoing Talks with Xi Jinping

In a strong condemnation, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that the United Kingdom’s plan to send ammunition containing depleted uranium to Ukraine would provoke a Russian response. The comments were made during the second day of Xi Jinping’s state visit to Moscow, where the Chinese President engaged in a series of diplomatic discussions with Putin. The proposed British shipment of depleted uranium munitions has become a point of contention, with Russia claiming that it could escalate the conflict and lead to severe repercussions.

The UK’s proposal to supply Ukraine with these controversial munitions comes amid an ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with Russia accusing NATO members of escalating the situation by sending more advanced weaponry to Ukraine. Putin’s remarks reflect Russia’s heightened concerns about Western military support for Ukraine and the potential consequences for European security.

Putin’s statement followed a joint declaration made with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who praised the Russia-China relationship as being at its “highest point in history.” During their formal talks, Xi reiterated China’s stance on being an impartial player in the Ukraine conflict, signaling a willingness to engage with both Russia and Ukraine in peace efforts. The two leaders signed several joint statements emphasizing strategic cooperation between their nations, further solidifying the Russia-China alliance.

In addition to the military discussion, Putin also commented on China’s peace plan for Ukraine, noting that several aspects of the proposal align with Russia’s own perspectives on resolving the conflict. The plan, which is seen by some as an effort by China to position itself as a neutral mediator, continues to be scrutinized by Western powers, who have expressed skepticism about Beijing’s motives.

Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg suggested that there had been signs of Russia seeking arms supplies from China, though these claims have yet to be verified. In a significant development, Ukraine reported a series of Russian air and missile strikes, while also claiming responsibility for a blast in Crimea that destroyed Russian cruise missiles.

As Putin and Xi Jinping continue their talks, the international community watches closely for any signs of escalation or de-escalation in the ongoing war in Ukraine.