The Kremlin has accused Britain of being a central force in escalating the Ukraine war, claiming London’s actions undermine efforts to broker a peaceful resolution. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov made the remarks following US President Donald Trump’s recent visit to London, where British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized continued pressure on Moscow.

Peskov labeled the UK “one of the leaders of the pro-war camp,” referencing a coalition of nations including France, Canada, and Poland that supply Ukraine with weapons, financial support, and diplomatic backing. He alleged Trump was informed about Western plans to maintain “illegal” sanctions against Russia, which he argued only deepen the conflict. Peskov reiterated that Russian President Vladimir Putin, like Trump, favors peace but criticized Britain’s approach as counterproductive.

The UK has remained a staunch ally of Ukraine since the war began in 2022, recently imposing new economic restrictions targeting Russia’s energy sector. These measures include sanctions on over two dozen companies and actions against more than 100 oil tankers linked to Moscow’s “shadow fleet.” Western nations have also provided Ukraine with long-range missiles and relaxed rules for their use inside Russian territory, a move condemned by Moscow as reckless and provocative.

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has faced scrutiny for reportedly undermining early peace talks in 2022, instead advocating for a military strategy that prolonged the conflict. The Kremlin’s latest statements underscore its frustration with Western support for Ukraine, framing it as a deliberate effort to sustain hostilities rather than seek resolution.