Lammy’s remarks come amid a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, which he likened to the uncertainty following World War II. Highlighting the growing complexity of global conflicts, he argued that the Foreign Office must adapt to an era where the lines between domestic and international policy are increasingly blurred…reports Asian Lite News
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has declared that the post-Cold War era is “well and truly over,” emphasizing that Britain’s security hinges on confronting Russia. Writing in The Guardian ahead of a pivotal meeting between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron at Downing Street, Lammy stressed the importance of standing against the Kremlin and fostering alliances to counter Russia’s influence.
Lammy announced plans for the UK’s first standalone sanctions regime targeting people smugglers and organized crime networks, marking a significant shift in foreign policy. This measure aims to freeze UK assets linked to smuggling operations and expand existing sanctions beyond kleptocrats. Lammy described the initiative as part of a broader strategy to tackle migration, which currently consumes a third of the UK’s overseas aid budget.
“There is nothing progressive about allowing vulnerable people to be exploited by criminal gangs,” Lammy stated, defending the sanctions as a necessary step to combat people smuggling. However, critics question the impact of the sanctions, noting that many smuggling networks lack UK-based assets or ties.
Lammy’s remarks come amid a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, which he likened to the uncertainty following World War II. Highlighting the growing complexity of global conflicts, he argued that the Foreign Office must adapt to an era where the lines between domestic and international policy are increasingly blurred.
In a landmark foreign policy speech, Lammy introduced his approach of “progressive realism,” advocating for pragmatic diplomacy. He credited Ernest Bevin, a post-war foreign secretary, as inspiration, emphasizing a focus on “taking the world as it is” while forging stable relationships, particularly with Europe and China.
The Foreign Office has initiated three internal reviews to address its integration with Whitehall and improve the UK’s global impact. These reviews, led by prominent figures such as Prof. Ngaire Woods and Minouche Shafik, aim to recalibrate the UK’s diplomatic and developmental strategies. Olly Robbins, newly appointed as the Foreign Office’s permanent secretary, will oversee these recommendations, marking a significant reshaping of the UK’s diplomatic core.
Macron, who has recently highlighted Russia’s efforts to globalize the Ukrainian conflict, is expected to press for unity among Western allies during his meeting with Starmer. Addressing French diplomats earlier, Macron warned against any resolution to the Ukraine crisis that excludes Ukrainian input or weakens Europe’s security.
With concerns over U.S. support for Ukraine amid Donald Trump’s presidential bid, Lammy acknowledged the transatlantic alliance faces significant challenges. Trump’s perceived preference for strong, united allies, Macron argued, underscores the need for cohesion among European nations.
Lammy concluded his remarks by calling for essential reforms to Britain’s diplomatic institutions, urging a renewed focus on delivering results both internationally and domestically. The Foreign Secretary’s vision signals a shift towards a more assertive and strategic UK foreign policy in an era of renewed global tensions.
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