Starmer thanks British troops deployed near Russian border during Christmas visit
The leader of the Labour Party has thanked British troops stationed near the Russian border for acting as a "beacon of hope and freedom this Christmas".
Sir Keir Starmer said "the defence of the UK starts in Ukraine", adding that Britain has seen what happens "when politics goes soft on Putin".
During his visit to Estonia he praised Britain's Armed Forces for "standing tall in the face of Putin's aggression" amidst "dark clouds of conflict and instability".
"The defence of Britain starts in Ukraine - that’s why the defence of the UK starts in Ukraine and we will stand with Kyiv for as long as it takes to win," he said.
"The Salisbury attacks [the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in the Wiltshire city] and sinister influence of Russian money in Britain are a reminder that Putin’s malign influence will extend beyond Ukraine if we fail to stand up to it.
"We must be secure at home and strong abroad."
Sir Keir added: "I am proud of our Armed Forces for standing tall in the face of Russian aggression.
"In government, Labour will reinforce our Nato allies on the border with Russia, ensure Britain plays a leading role in the response to areas of Russian aggression like the high north by fulfilling our Nato commitments in full."
He visited troops in Estonia with shadow defence secretary John Healey, with both politicians thanking British personnel for their service.
Mr Healey also stressed the defence of the UK starts in Ukraine – adding that the UK would stand with Kyiv for "as long as it takes to win".
The pair also warned the West must not lose sight of the Russian threat to Europe in the future, telling troops they may face decades of Russian aggression beyond Ukraine.
Mr Healey said serving in the UK Armed Forces was "the ultimate public service" and British troops "embody the values of courage, integrity, loyalty and professionalism that the British people most admire".
"They make Britain - and Labour - proud, not only at Christmas but throughout the year," he said.
"On backing Nato allies on the Russian border and military support to Ukraine since the illegal invasion began, the Government has had - and will continue to have - our fullest Labour support.
"We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes to win. We stand ready to back further assistance to Ukraine and our Nato allies like Estonia."
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