Streeting: UK needs to be vigilant in face of Putin’s intimidation

The Defence Secretary said Russia’s activities showed why increased military and security spending was necessary. He said it was important for the public to understand “why we are so vigilant”.

Speaking during a visit to Babcock in Rosyth, where he received a briefing on the Type 31 frigate programme, Mr Streeting said: “Every day we are dealing with attempts by Russia to intimidate or provoke the UK and our allies.

“And we have seen – whether through Russian aircraft buzzing our airspace or ships in the Channel, the scouting of underwater cables – visible examples of what we are dealing with throughout the year.

“We’ve got some of the best security and intelligence services in the world, I would argue the best. So we are more than capable of dealing with any sorts of threats that Russia would send our way.

“But I do think it is important that the public understand why we are so vigilant and why it is necessary to invest more in our defence and security, because so much of the capability that we need may not be as visible to the public as other things we can spend public money on.”

Chancellor John Healey quit as defence secretary under Sir Keir Starmer in protest at a lack of cash for defence, arguing that a target of spending 3 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030 must be set.

Mr Streeting said Mr Healey would set out the “interim path” to 3 per cent as part of the Nato commitment to 3.5 per cent by 2035.

This week, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced a package of new sanctions against Russia.

Ministers are trying to turn the screw on individuals and businesses propping up Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine.

Among the 19 targets sanctioned are six Russian banks, six newly acquired shadow fleet tankers and four Russian companies importing tantalum and niobium – rare metals critical for producing military kit, the Foreign Office said.

It came after Mr Miliband held talks with Marco Rubio at the US State Department, which he described as “very productive”.

The pair discussed how they can further support Ukraine against Russian, the Foreign Secretary told reporters.

Mr Miliband insisted his previous criticism of “racist” Donald Trump had not harmed relations with the White House.

He said his past comments “didn’t come up” during the talks.

Mr Miliband said: “The new sanctions demonstrate the UK’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine and bearing down on those propping up the Kremlin’s aggression.

“Ukraine’s fight is our fight.

“Those that threaten Ukraine’s freedom and democracy are a threat to Britain’s security at home.

“That’s why we will continue stepping up the pressure on Russia until a just and lasting peace has been reached.”

Chancellor Mr Healey said: “Our commitment to stand with the Ukrainian people is absolute.

“That’s why we’re introducing new tougher sanctions to choke off the funds that fuel (Vladimir) Putin’s illegal war and are targeting his shadow fleet.

“And the UK will continue to step up our action against Russia and its shadow fleet activity to protect our national security, our economy, and global stability.”