Russia Calls Britain Its Biggest Enemy While Softening Tone on U.S., Says Reuters
Russia is now calling Britain its number one enemy, while it is being nicer to the U.S. under Donald Trump, according to Reuters. The tension between Russia and the UK grew after Russia accused British diplomats of spying and kicked them out.
In response, Britain did the same to Russian diplomats. Reuters reports that Russia’s foreign intelligence agency even called Britain a “warmonger” and accused it of trying to block Trump’s peace efforts with Ukraine.
According to Reuters, this is not the first time Russia has viewed Britain as an enemy. The two countries have had a rocky relationship for over 200 years. Russian state TV is now reminding people about Britain’s past conflicts with Russia, dating back to the Crimean War in the 1800s. Reuters says some Russian politicians believe Britain has been involved in secret attacks on Russian targets, though no evidence has been given.
The UK has been one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters, sending weapons, training soldiers, and rallying other Western countries to help. Reuters reports that Britain was the first country to give Ukraine Western-made battle tanks and long-range missiles, which made Russia very angry. Some Russian officials are even saying Britain should be wiped off the map because of this.
Meanwhile, Russia seems to be warming up to the U.S. since Trump took office. Reuters highlights how Moscow used to blame Washington for helping Ukraine, but now its harshest words are saved for Britain. Some experts believe Russia sees Trump as someone who could push for a peace deal that benefits Moscow.
Reuters also notes that Russia’s economy is struggling because of the ongoing war, and some Russian lawmakers want to keep British businesses out of the country, even if peace is achieved.
British-Russian trade has dropped significantly, but some UK companies like AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline are still operating there.
Despite Russia’s hostility, Britain remains a major player in the West’s support for Ukraine.
Reuters points out that while Russia mocks the UK’s small army, it still sees Britain as a leader that influences other countries.
With tensions rising, it’s clear that the UK and Russia are not likely to become friends anytime soon.
Credit: Reuters