20 December 2023 , 23:12
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The resolve of the Ukrainian people has remained steadfast since Vladimir Putin launched his illegal invasion.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the country’s Western allies. Nations which initially pledged unwavering support are now questioning whether they should continue providing arms and financial backing.
Republicans in the US are refusing to sign off further assistance, while a £43billion EU aid package has been blocked by Hungary.
There are increased fears in Kyiv that their plight is being ignored as the world’s attention focuses on the situation in the Middle East.
There is also growing alarm that they could be cut adrift entirely by the US if Donald Trump is re-elected in November.
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Allies should remember that Putin will only be emboldened in his imperialist ambitions if Russian forces are able to overrun Ukraine.
This must not become the forgotten war. To desert Ukraine now would be to desert the side of freedom and democracy.
Kerb spending
When Rishi Sunak cancelled HS2 he pledged the money would be spent on infrastructure in the north of England.
The money is being spent – on upgrading roads in London. To add insult to injury, the Department of Transport boasted the funding was part of the “Network North” scheme.
After cancelling HS2, this is yet another kick in the teeth for travellers in the North West, North East and Yorkshire & Humber having to put up with an unreliable, overcrowded and disjointed transport system.
Figures show the Government spends more than £800 per person on transport in London, compared with £359 per person in the North.
Instead of levelling up, the Tories are holding regions outside London down.
One’s enough
Rugby Ace Mike Tindall’s nickname for Prince William is “One Pint Willy”.
Apparently, the heir to the throne likes the odd drink but never gets royally drunk.