Russia is not serious about achieving peace and its war against Ukraine is becoming increasingly unsustainable, the UK has stated to the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Ankur Narayan, the UK's Politico-Military Counsellor, delivered the strong message, highlighting the recent reaffirmation of support for Ukraine by the leaders of the UK, France, and Germany.
The statement follows a meeting in London on 7 June where Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. During this meeting, the leaders reiterated their unwavering commitment to Ukraine's defence against Russia's illegal invasion and outlined conditions for a just and lasting peace. The UK stressed that Ukraine has consistently shown a readiness to pursue peace through diplomatic channels, including agreeing to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
Conversely, Russia is accused of consistently demonstrating a lack of seriousness about peace. President Putin recently dismissed proposals for direct engagement at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. Russia continues to refuse a ceasefire and demands that Ukraine withdraw from its own internationally-recognised territory, including key cities forming a 'Fortress Belt' vital for Ukraine's defence. Such demands are effectively calls for Ukraine's surrender, according to the UK.
Despite these demands, Russia is reportedly facing significant setbacks on the battlefield. The UK statement noted that Russia is suffering approximately 30,000 casualties a month, with up to half being fatalities, leading to a significant slowdown in its advances. While Russia has incurred 420,000 casualties to occupy only an additional 0.8% of Ukraine in 2025, it is projected to face similar casualty rates for even smaller gains in 2026. The UK estimates that Russia has already suffered 1.3 million casualties in total, occupying less than 19.5% of Ukraine, a rate of loss deemed increasingly unsustainable.
The UK also condemned Russia's intensifying attacks on Ukrainian civilians. May saw the highest number of drones fired into Ukraine since the invasion began, alongside the highest reported civilian casualty figures since April 2022. Early June indicates a continuation of this trend, with over 2,400 drones and 77 missiles fired between 1 and 9 June, resulting in 98 civilian deaths and over 680 injuries. The international community, including the UK, has condemned these actions, particularly the reckless use of Oreshnik nuclear-capable missiles and dangerous drone incursions into NATO territory. The Foreign Office continues to advise against all travel to Ukraine.
The UK position is that Russia's maximalist demands, rejection of a ceasefire, and escalating violence contradict its international obligations, including those under the Helsinki Final Act concerning sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful dispute resolution. The path to peace, as set out by Ukraine and its international partners, requires Russia to agree to an immediate, unconditional ceasefire and engage meaningfully in negotiations. The UK affirmed its continued support for Ukraine's right to self-defence and its commitment to maintaining pressure on the Kremlin.