Lords debates Russia and former Soviet States
16 October 2014
Members of the Lords debated the role of Russia and the states of the former Soviet Union in upholding international law and democratic principles, on 16 October.
Members highlighted the need for Russian cooperation with regard to gas and oil, and that the global oil price would be the biggest factor in changing Russian foreign policy towards the Ukraine and the West. Additionally, peers felt the UK must maintain open channels for dialogue and negotiation with regard to breaches of international law, in particular Russia’s recent actions in Ukraine.
Baroness Anelay of St Johns (Conservative), government spokesperson, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, said the government’s focus is on steps to de-escalate the current crisis and enable Ukraine to prosper as an independent state. She stated the government does not recognise the illegal annexation of the Crimea by Russia, and they are committed to continuing dialogue to reduce tensions whilst not allowing Russia to dictate Ukraine’s sovereign right of action.
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