Starmer Warns Iran Conflict Must Not Become 'Windfall for Putin' as Zelenskyy Arrives in UK
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has issued a stark warning that the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran must not be allowed to turn into a "windfall for Putin," as he prepares to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in London. The Ukrainian leader's visit coincides with a critical government deadline for Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich to pay proceeds from his £2.5 billion sale of Chelsea Football Club to victims of the war in Ukraine.
Abramovich Faces Legal Action Over Chelsea Sale Funds
The British government has set a firm deadline for Abramovich, who insists the funds raised from the Chelsea sale are his to allocate, including potentially to Russian victims of the conflict. A government source indicated there is no expectation that Abramovich will comply by the deadline, paving the way for legal action. Last year, officials warned Abramovich he must release the cash or face court proceedings.
On Monday, Abramovich's legal team at Kobre & Kim stated the money remains "wholly owned" by Fordstam Ltd, the corporate vehicle through which the billionaire financed Chelsea. Starmer is anticipated to face intense questioning regarding the future of these substantial funds during President Zelenskyy's visit on Tuesday.
UK Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Ukraine with Continued Arms Supplies
Both Prime Minister Starmer and Defence Secretary John Healey have expressed resolute support for Ukraine, confirming that weapons supplies are ongoing. Healey detailed recent deliveries in the House of Commons, announcing, "I can confirm today that, over the last month, we have delivered to Ukraine 3,500 drones, 18,000 artillery rounds, and 3 million rounds of small ammunition."
Healey emphasized the UK's steadfast commitment, stating, "We face two conflicts on two continents, supported by an axis of aggression with similar tactics and similar technologies. I say this to the Ukrainian people on behalf of the UK: we will not forget the war in Europe and our total determination to stand with Ukraine remains steadfast, and we will welcome President Zelenskyy to this country tomorrow."
Russia's Financial Gains from Middle East Tensions
Starmer's warning about a potential "windfall for Putin" is underscored by data suggesting Russia has accrued approximately €6 billion (£5 billion) from fossil fuel sales in the two weeks since the US-Israel war with Iran began. These commodity revenues are a vital component of state income, directly funding Moscow's military operations in Ukraine.
Healey has previously pointed to Putin's "hidden hand" behind some Iranian tactics and their retaliatory drone and missile attacks against Gulf states. He noted that the Russian president benefits from surging oil prices, explaining, "It helps him with a fresh supply of funds for his brutal war in Ukraine."
International Context and Diplomatic Maneuvers
The situation is further complicated by international diplomatic moves. Last week, former US President Donald Trump activated a one-month waiver allowing countries to purchase Russian oil without facing sanctions, a decision that has drawn scrutiny. The US has previously imposed tariffs on nations like India for buying Russian oil.
Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy has subtly countered Trump's assertion that the US did not require Ukraine's assistance with drone defence. Zelenskyy revealed that the US had contacted Ukraine "several times" to request help for a specific country or to support American interests, confirming, "All our institutions received these requests, and we responded to them," though he provided no further specifics.
This high-stakes diplomatic engagement occurs against a backdrop of global tension, with the UK government striving to balance support for Ukraine with the complexities of Middle Eastern conflicts, all while addressing domestic legal challenges related to Russian oligarchs and war funding.
