The United Kingdom has strongly criticised Russia for its continuing assaults on Ukrainian cities, calling for accountability for the killing of civilians and damage to essential infrastructure. Speaking at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), UK Senior Military Advisor Lt Col Joby Rimmer urged transparency, restraint, and renewed dialogue to prevent further escalation.
UK reaffirms support for Ukraine’s sovereignty
The UK reiterated its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that peace must be achieved through diplomacy and adherence to international law. Lt Col Rimmer said that while the UK remains open to dialogue, Russia’s ongoing military campaign and refusal to participate in good faith negotiations have hindered all efforts toward a peaceful resolution.
According to the statement, Russia has escalated its aerial attacks on Ukrainian cities over consecutive nights, targeting power plants, gas facilities, and residential areas. The UK condemned these actions as deliberate assaults on civilian life and infrastructure.
Growing toll on civilians across Ukraine
Recent Russian strikes have resulted in significant civilian casualties. A 12-year-old girl and a six-month-old baby were among those killed in Kyiv, where air raids also destroyed homes and energy installations. Similar attacks across nine other Ukrainian regions have left at least six people dead and dozens injured. In Kharkiv, a drone hit a kindergarten, claiming one life and wounding several others, including children.
The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine reported that civilian casualties between January and September this year rose by 31% compared to the same period in 2024. Nearly one-third of these losses were attributed to long-range missile and drone strikes, with Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipro being frequent targets.
UK calls for justice under international law
The UK pledged to continue working with international partners through the OSCE and the United Nations to document war crimes and ensure accountability for violations of international law. Special attention, the statement noted, will be given to crimes affecting civilians and children.
Lt Col Rimmer highlighted that Russia’s recent actions have undermined trust and stability across Europe. “If Russia truly desires peace,” he asked, “why does it continue to reject dialogue through established mechanisms such as the OSCE and the Forum for Security Co-operation?”
Concerns over Russia’s nuclear activities
The UK also voiced concern over Russia’s latest nuclear developments, particularly the reported test of the Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile. The missile allegedly flew over 14,000 kilometres during a 15-hour test on October 21 and was later confirmed by President Putin. The UK criticised Moscow for conducting such tests without prior notification or transparency, warning that such steps threaten global security and increase the risk of miscalculation.
Rimmer stressed the importance of maintaining open communication channels and adhering to arms control frameworks to prevent dangerous misunderstandings. The OSCE, he said, remains a key platform for promoting stability and building trust among nations.
Global implications and the road ahead
The statement emphasised that the war in Ukraine is not a distant issue for the UK or its allies. The conflict, it said, has deep implications for European and global security. The UK reaffirmed its commitment to take timely and coordinated actions with NATO and other international partners to put pressure on Russia while promoting conditions for a peaceful settlement.
The UK underscored that its goal is not confrontation but stability—rooted in dialogue, cooperation, and international law. As the situation evolves, London intends to continue supporting Ukraine while engaging all stakeholders to prevent further escalation.
The address concluded with a reminder that accountability and transparency are vital for global peace. The UK urged all OSCE members to act responsibly, uphold existing commitments, and avoid steps that could lead to catastrophic miscalculations.