'Now is not the time for lifting sanctions on Russia': UK premier

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - The British prime minister on Thursday stressed that now is not the time for lifting sanctions on Russia, arguing that the so-called "coalition of the willing" discussed how to increase pressure to support the US initiative.

Speaking to media after meeting European leaders in Paris, Keir Starmer said the coalition of the willing is "absolutely determined" to see peace through strength in Ukraine.

He said they had a "very constructive" meeting of the coalition of the willing, which is bigger than they have had before, 30 countries and NATO and the EU.

"There was absolute clarity (during talks) that Russia is trying to delay, is playing games," said Starmer, referring to statements from Russia that sanctions must be lifted before a ceasefire in the Black Sea begins.

Starmer expressed firm stance on more support for Ukraine to make sure it is in the strongest possible position, both now and in further negotiations.

"Now is not the time for lifting of sanctions, quite the contrary, what we discussed is how we can increase sanctions to support the US initiative, to bring Russia to the table through further pressure from this group of countries," he added.

During the meeting, the leaders also discussed to further the plans for reassuring the peace, the coalition of the willing and the military and operational plans, whether they are on the land, the air or the sea, said the prime minister.

"What came out most strongly from the meeting was so many countries standing as they've stood for over three years now, with Ukraine, standing in this crucial moment for as long as it takes."

Starmer co-hosted the third summit of the coalition together with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris following separate talks between the US, Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia earlier this week.