VIENNA (CHATNEWSTV) — The United Kingdom has accused Russia of prolonging the war in Ukraine despite Kyiv’s offer of an immediate ceasefire 22 days ago, calling Moscow’s actions a “distraction and delay” tactic.
Speaking at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) on Thursday, British Ambassador Neil Holland criticized Russia for continuing its attacks while refusing to commit to a full, unconditional truce.
“Rather than grasp this opportunity for peace, Russia has chosen to continue to fight,” Holland said. “The consequence is the needless sacrifice of more lives—soldiers and civilians alike.”
Holland pointed to recent Russian attacks, including drone strikes on Ukrainian cities, the targeting of a military hospital in Kharkiv, and the damage to a kindergarten, which left at least 25 people injured, including a 15-year-old girl in serious condition.
“This is the price that Ukrainians pay for the Kremlin’s game playing with the peace process,” Holland said.
The British envoy also accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of attempting to undermine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s credibility as a diversion from Moscow’s unwillingness to negotiate seriously.
“Rather than engaging with the U.S.-led peace initiative, President Putin is resorting to his old playbook—distracting and delaying,” Holland said.
He also noted that despite progress in Saudi Arabia-mediated ceasefire talks—including an agreement to prevent military use of commercial vessels in the Black Sea—Russia had “immediately backtracked” and imposed conditions.
Holland further criticized Russia’s recent large-scale conscription drive, calling it a sign that Putin is not preparing for peace.
His remarks came as the world marked the third anniversary of the Bucha massacre, where Russian forces were accused of committing war crimes against Ukrainian civilians. Holland said Russia has continued to spread disinformation to “absolve themselves of responsibility” despite “a litany of evidence” from international monitors.
“We do not need to look far for reminders as to why this war must end,” he said. “We must emphasize the need for accountability and renew our commitment to lasting peace.”
