← Back to House of Commons Debates
Ukraine
20 May 2024
Lead MP
Andrew Mitchell
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
UkraineDefence
Other Contributors: 37
At a Glance
Andrew Mitchell raised concerns about ukraine in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Mr. Andrew Mitchell opens the debate by condemning Putin's invasion and supporting Britain’s actions to back Ukraine, including a pledge of £3 billion in military aid per year until 2030. He details the ongoing conflict's impact on Russia economically and militarily, emphasising the need for sustained support to ensure Ukraine's victory.
Andrew Mitchell
Con
Sutton Coldfield
Mr. Andrew Mitchell discusses the necessity of continuing military aid to Ukraine due to Russia's ongoing territorial gains and the critical state of the conflict, emphasising Britain’s role in galvanizing international support against Putin's invasion.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Mr. Julian Lewis questions the effectiveness of sanctions during wartime, citing the issue of Russian oil being refined and exported to Western countries through intermediaries like India.
Mr. Kevan Jones highlights concerns about UK and European companies bypassing sanctions via Turkey and Central Asian nations, seeking more stringent measures to enforce compliance.
Alison Thewliss
SNP
Glasgow Central
Ms. Alison Thewliss inquires about the FCDO's actions following reports of sanctions evasion via Azerbaijan and other countries.
Chris Bryant
Lab
Rhondda and Ogmore
Mr. Chris Bryant expresses concern that Western nations are not matching Russia's production capacity for war matériel, urging a more cohesive strategy to address the imbalance in military readiness.
Andrew Percy
Con
Brigg and Goole
Mr. Andrew Percy highlights the importance of medical aid for injured Ukrainian troops, seeking assurances that proper support is being provided for their recovery and reintegration into active service.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Mr. Jim Shannon inquires about discussions with Ukraine regarding troop rotation and respite to ensure soldiers receive adequate rest, maintaining readiness and morale on the frontline.
Debbie Abrahams
Lab
Oldham East and Saddleworth
Ms. Debbie Abrahams supports military aid for Ukraine but questions the effectiveness of sanctions and calls for a review to extend their reach, ensuring economic pressure on Russia complements military support.
North Cotswolds
Mr. Geoffrey Clifton-Brown praises Britain's leadership in coordinating international efforts against Russia but urges the Government to encourage richer nations and allies worldwide to contribute more significantly.
Andrew Bridgen
Con
Warwicks N & Leamington
Mr. Andrew Bridgen questions Ukraine’s ability to sustain a long-term war of attrition against Russia with its smaller population, suggesting NATO intervention as a potential solution or endgame.
David Mundell
Con
Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale
Expressed pleasure at the co-operation mentioned by his right hon. Friend but highlighted the significant role of the Ukrainian diaspora in supporting Ukraine both back home and in raising public support in the UK.
Chris Bryant
Lab
Rhondda and Ogmore
Supported the idea of quickly passing necessary legislation if an agreement is reached at the G7.
Andrew Mitchell
Con
Sutton Coldfield
Acknowledged unity in supporting Ukraine, committed to moving as fast as possible on sanctions and legal issues, expected first monetary penalties from OFSI during this year.
Bernard Jenkin
Con
Harwich and North Essex
Mr. Jenkin emphasised the strategic importance of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlighting Russia's threats to global stability and peace. He noted that while Russia faces significant challenges such as equipment shortages and economic fragility, it still possesses the ability to sustain massive casualties and has support from its population. Mr. Jenkin discussed the need for a robust US policy to empower Ukraine to win against Russia, warning of the risks if Putin is perceived to be winning on the diplomatic front or if there is a stalemate. He also addressed the implications of US aid delays, the potential change in US policy allowing Ukrainian use of weapons against Russian soil targets, and the broader geopolitical consequences for Europe and other regions like the Middle East. Mr. Jenkin advocated for increased UK military capacity and cross-party support to move towards a war footing.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Mr. Edward Leigh questioned what would happen if a stalemate materialised, expressing concern about the potential shift in European attitudes towards negotiations with Russia following such an outcome.
Dave Doogan
SNP
Angus and Perthshire Glens
Reinforced parliamentary unity on the issue of support for Ukraine, noting that despite differences with the Government, the SNP supports them fully. Acknowledged the UK's initial strong start but noted concerns about limited ability to endure in the long term. Praised the decision to send Challenger tanks to Ukraine and suggested more such signals are needed without significant budgetary impact. Emphasised Russia's violation of agreements and its continued military efforts, highlighting the need for European security against Russian aggression. Discussed challenges faced by both sides but focused on concerns about Russia's industrial mobilization and production capabilities, especially in comparison with western countries. Raised issues regarding sanctions effectiveness and UK imports from third-party refineries of Russian oil, questioning their impact on funding Russian war efforts.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Acknowledged the realism of the previous speaker's analysis but raised concerns about potential peace negotiations with Russia. Questioned the current state of stalemate and suggested that while it is unpalatable, the west needs to consider realistic strategies for navigating a possible negotiation scenario.
Jack Lopresti
Con
Filton and Bradley Stoke
Mr. Jack Lopresti emphasised the evolving nature of Russia's offensive in Ukraine, noting that Russian forces have grown increasingly capable since October, striking high-value targets at significant depths behind Ukrainian frontlines. He highlighted the deployment of precision-strike assets by Russia and their successful reconnaissance-strike contours which are undermining Ukrainian air defences and command-and-control structures. Mr Lopresti also pointed out the growing use of long-range drones and guided glide bombs in Russian offensives, leading to a decline in Ukraine's lethality if not countered effectively.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of continued UK support for Ukraine, citing instances where the UK led other allies in providing crucial military supplies such as NLAWs, artillery shells, tanks, and long-range missiles. He underscored that the outcome of this conflict is critical to NATO's credibility and called on all NATO members to ramp up their defence manufacturing capacities, especially concerning artillery and ammunition.
Mr Lopresti advocated for a comprehensive approach to support Ukraine's defence needs through collaborative manufacturing efforts with UK companies such as MBDA. He also highlighted the need for direct collaboration between Ukrainian small and medium-sized enterprises and British counterparts to expedite technological advancements and equipment production.
Lastly, he urged the Government to accelerate moving defence manufacturing onto a wartime footing, emphasising that this support is not aid but an investment in the United Kingdom's long-term security.
Dan Carden
Lab
Liverpool Walton
Carden emphasises the UK's support for Ukraine, highlighting its importance in post-Brexit foreign policy. He warns of a potential US scaling back on support and stresses Russia's growing strength due to sanctions' ineffectiveness and expanding alliances with China, Iran, North Korea and India. Carden also discusses the strategic significance of Ukraine’s natural resources like titanium, lithium, uranium, and graphite for modern defence capabilities. He advocates for securing these materials for Ukraine to prevent Russian control over them.
North Cotswolds
The UK should commit to £3 billion of annual aid for Ukraine, providing artillery and drones among other support. The war is dragging on with limited advances; the west must decide whether to escalate support or face a prolonged conflict. There's risk that Russia may seek to expand its aggression beyond Ukraine.
Dave Doogan
SNP
Angus and Perthshire Glens
Acknowledged the need for tactical advantage but disagreed on the scale of current support being insufficient, suggesting a more nuanced view on the impact of recent aid.
Marie Rimmer
Lab
St Helens South and Whiston
Ukrainians are fighting for democracy, freedom, and Europe’s survival. European countries must step up their support to Ukraine with military aid, sanctions, and combating dirty money. Restrictions on armaments should be lifted to ensure Ukraine can defend itself effectively against Russia's barbaric behaviour. The Government should pressure the EU to use Russian central bank funds and seized assets to support Ukraine. Talks on Ukraine joining NATO and the EU must begin to hasten their membership.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
The debate needs realism in light of Russia's historical view of Ukraine, despite Putin's barbaric actions. Given the resource mismatch between Russia and Ukraine, it is unlikely that Ukraine can win without significant economic sacrifices from other nations. The US could have ended the war but chose not to provide sufficient armaments. Questions are raised about willingness to put own economies on a war footing or send troops to Ukraine. Peace negotiations might be inevitable, but the debate lacks serious consideration of realistic outcomes.
Alex Sobel
Lab Co-op
Leeds Central and Headingley
Mr. Sobel argues against the idea that Ukraine is historically an outcrop of Russia, highlighting the nation's ancient legacy including the Scythians and Kyivan Rus'. He supports increasing military production to match Russian expenditure, emphasising collaboration with Ukraine for advanced defence technology. He also underscores the humanitarian aid efforts by himself and others in support of Ukraine, stressing the need for easier visa access and more efficient use of funds raised within Ukraine itself. Additionally, he calls for the seizure of frozen assets to fund war effort expenses, advocating for immediate supply of F-16s and Storm Shadow missiles to bolster Ukrainian air defence capabilities.
Richard Foord
Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
The speaker emphasises the importance of maintaining consensus in supporting Ukraine but calls for a more nuanced approach to diplomacy, advocating that Ukraine should negotiate from a position of strength. He discusses historical precedents such as the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan, highlighting the impact of domestic public opinion and economic strain on military engagement. Foord also addresses propaganda within Russia and suggests understanding Russian perceptions is crucial. Additionally, he mentions the potential role of China in mediating an end to the conflict but cautions that Chinese diplomacy may not align with Western interests.
Kevan Jones
Lab
Durham
Emphasises the ongoing support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion, highlighting the historical context of Russian aggression in Crimea and Donbas. Acknowledges the previous cross-party support but expresses concern about recent political manoeuvring over defence expenditure. Stresses the importance of collective efforts with NATO allies to maintain deterrence and supply humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
I am very pleased to speak in this debate and to add my support, thanking Members for their constructive contributions. I salute the courage and strength of Ukrainian men, women and children during the war. Women were making meals for troops and clothes into uniforms, showing commitment from the entire nation. I congratulate our Government on its clear commitment. I asked an urgent question on Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and Georgia; the Minister reinforced the Government's commitment to support Ukraine. The ongoing Russian threat has undermined human rights and democracy in Ukraine and Georgia, necessitating continued military aid such as missiles, air defence systems, ammunition and a dome-type self-defence system against Russian missile attacks. NATO countries combined have overwhelming military might compared to Russia. Poland is building a defensive wall on its border with Russia, indicating understanding of the threat. We should recognise NATO's strength in outgoing military activity and resolve to combat Russia. Ukraine struggles to combat Russia’s glide bombs; we must ensure necessary supplies are retained. The Russian army has committed despicable crimes including rape and violence against Ukrainian soldiers and civilians. Defeating Russia is crucial for protecting other countries like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany and the UK. UNICEF reports nearly 2,000 children in Ukraine killed or injured; 2.9 million require humanitarian aid. The war has taken a devastating toll on the people of Ukraine, with over 10,000 civilian casualties. More than half of school-aged children are missing in-person schooling; education is not just about military and humanitarian aid but also educational assistance for displaced children.
John Healey
Lab
Rawmarsh and Conisbrough
Discusses the importance of continuing support for Ukraine, emphasising the unity within the House. Highlights the visit to Ukraine where he met kidnapped teenagers and praises the work of Save Ukraine charity. Acknowledges the contributions of other Members in gathering aid and supporting Ukrainian families through resettlement programmes. Critiques the UK's lagging response to sanctions against Russian oligarchs and urges more action on freezing Russian state assets for reconstruction help.
Bernard Jenkin
Con
Harwich and North Essex
Made a reflective speech recognising that the war is part of a global conflict, emphasising the need to expel Russia from illegally occupied Ukrainian territory to achieve a clean and clear end to the conflict.
Dave Doogan
SNP
Angus
Added SNP’s voice to the consensus on supporting Ukraine, emphasising that it is essential for western European security that Putin's full-scale invasion fails. Described himself as an impartial observer of UK activities in Ukraine.
Jack Lopresti
Con
Filton and Bradley Stoke
Discussed the technical aspects of Russia’s increased fire rate on the frontline, argued that defence of Ukraine today is defence of the UK tomorrow. Emphasised the need for greater sense of importance and urgency in public support.
Dan Carden
Lab
Liverpool, Walton
Made an argument about thinking less about long-term partnership with Ukraine and more on values such as sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democracy. Suggested that a successful Ukraine will be central to wider European security and prosperity in the future.
The Cotswolds
Urged more attention on diplomatic efforts to build a coalition of willing countries, including those in south-east Asia and the middle east. Warned about increasing cooperation between China and Russia.
Rimmer
Lab
St Helens South and Whiston
Reinforced the argument that UK is still too often playing catch-up on sanctions, urged the Government to demonstrate more action and greater leadership in directing frozen Russian state assets towards reconstruction help.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Injected realism into the debate, emphasised that a Ukrainian victory requires willing resources. Stated that Ukrainians can cope with mismatches with Russia as long as they maintain backing from other nations.
Leo Docherty
Con
Not specified
The Minister acknowledged numerous questions and contributions from various MPs, focusing on issues such as accelerating aid delivery, diplomatic efforts, seizing Russian assets, the global context of the conflict, military-industrial challenges, economic reconstruction, and historical significance. He emphasised the UK's resolve to support Ukraine until victory is achieved.
Roger Gale
Con
Herne Bay and Sandwich
Mr. Gale noted that while the Chair remains impartial, the sentiment of the House was clear in its unanimous support for Ukraine, expressing 'slava Ukraini' in solidarity with the nation.
Government Response
Committed to moving as swiftly as legally possible on sanctions. Expected financial penalties from the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) within the current year.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.