UK foreign secretary warns against viewing Putin's actions as pragmatic imperialism

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy warned against interpreting Vladimir Putin's actions as pragmatic, calling them imperialism disguised as realpolitik. He emphasized that the UK is open to dialogue but expects Russia to respect Ukraine's sovereignty for lasting peace. Tensions have risen as US President Donald Trump engages directly with Russia, sidelining Ukraine. Trump has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, leading to backlash from Western allies who defend Zelenskyy as a democratically elected leader. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine during his upcoming meeting with Trump. Meanwhile, discussions about increasing European defense spending are ongoing, with potential implications for UK fiscal policy.