UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – David Lammy, addressing foreign policy experts, warned that Russian aggression has disrupted post-Cold War peace and backed increased NATO spending.
In his first speech of 2025, the foreign secretary discussed the Cold War and criticized Vladimir Putin and Russian aggression.
Mr Lammy supported newly elected president Donald Trump’s call for NATO allies to significantly increase defense budgets while ridiculing the president-elect’s proposals for territorial expansion in Greenland and Canada.
The Independent reported earlier this week that Donald Trump urged NATO nations to allocate 5% of their GDP to defense spending. Mr. Lammy did not support this proposal, warning that some allies are falling short and must follow through on their commitments.
While speaking to diplomats and foreign policy experts at the Foreign Office on Thursday, the foreign secretary argued that Russian aggression had shattered the post-1990s world framework.
David Lammy stated,
“We must put our money where our mouth is. That starts by facing facts. Donald Trump and J.D. Vance are simply right when they say that Europe needs to do more to defend its own continent.”
He added,
“It is myopia to pretend otherwise, with Russia on the march.”
Mr Lammy highlighted his “progressive realism” policy and blamed the past Conservative government for reducing Britain’s global influence. He also mentioned working to rebuild ties, including with the EU.
During the speech, the foreign secretary defended his “pragmatic approach” toward China and emphasized the need for collaboration on issues such as artificial intelligence and climate change.
Mr Lammy insisted the UK and its allies adopt long-term strategies, urging them to relearn lessons from the Cold War instead of focusing on short-term solutions.
He also warned,
“Our opponents are coordinating ever more closely. With Iranian drones fired at Ukrainian cities and North Korean troops now fighting against Ukraine.”
The speech outlined his foreign policy approach during the difficult first six months of his tenure at the FCDO. He also expressed support for Trump’s stance on increased defense spending.
David Lammy’s stance on Elon Musk and Donald Trump
After his speech, the foreign secretary discussed concerns regarding the newly incoming Trump presidency, highlighting Elon Musk’s attacks on Britain on social media.
Mr Musk is expected to play an essential role in Trump’s new administration.
When a question was asked about a tech billionaire who is working to remove Keir Starmer and demanding fresh elections, the foreign secretary stated, “I think that Keir Starmer was exactly right earlier in the week when he, of course, acknowledged the right to free speech. And there is a debate across the world about free speech, and Elon Musk is at one end of that debate.”
Commenting on Trump’s Greenland plans, he said,
“Trump’s approach to foreign policy, marked by strong rhetoric, a focus on peace through strength, and unpredictability, defines the current global environment.”
He explained that Trump’s focus on Greenland is tied to worries over Arctic security, with U.S. troops and a base stationed there. While highlighting Greenland as part of Denmark, he mentioned the ongoing debate within Greenland regarding its autonomy.
Lammy reveals new sanctions on illegal migration
David Lammy announced that he is transforming the Foreign Office to better address two crucial domestic issues of the British people that require international collaboration.
Regarding illegal migration, he said the Foreign Office’s approach would focus on “transactional, hard-headed diplomacy” and working with partners to tackle the people-smuggling process.
Mr. Lammy responded to his party, saying, “I’ve been told this isn’t a progressive issue, but they are wrong.”
He criticized the past government of Conservatives for “losing control of our borders,” calling it their most significant failure.
Mr Lammy stated that the UK will implement a new sanctions system focused on targeting those involved in people trafficking and illegal trade.