In a dramatic and impassioned speech in the House of Commons yesterday, Ed Davey MP expressed deep concerns over recent developments in international relations, particularly the United States’ shifting alliances under President Trump.
His remarks came in response to the controversial meeting in the Oval Office, where President Trump’s treatment of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shocked much of the international community.
Mr. Davey did not mince words in condemning the events that unfolded last Friday, describing the situation as an “attack on the brave and dignified President Zelensky.”
Ed Davey in the House of Commons, March 4th 2025
He highlighted the widespread outrage that followed, emphasising that for most observers, the incident underscored a significant and alarming shift in global power dynamics.
However, he pointedly noted that Nigel Farage, MP for Clacton, appeared to be the exception in his lack of visible disapproval.
“Nobody else watching those scenes could fail to understand that we have entered a new era,” Davey warned. “One in which the United States prefers to align itself with tyrants like Putin, rather than its democratic partners.” His stark assessment reflects a growing unease within the UK government regarding the reliability of its long-standing ally across the Atlantic.
Despite his criticism of the United States’ trajectory, Mr. Davey reaffirmed his support for the British Prime Minister’s leadership in international diplomacy. He praised the UK’s efforts in spearheading global discussions about Ukraine’s future, particularly through recent meetings with European and Canadian leaders in London. “Britain is leading the world, as we have so many times in the past,” he said, underscoring the nation’s historical role as a diplomatic and strategic force.
However, he tempered this praise with a stark warning: “We need to reduce our dependency on the United States. With deep regret, I fear that President Trump is not a reliable ally in respect of Russia.” This statement reflects a broader concern that the UK must strengthen its ties with European and Commonwealth allies to ensure its security and maintain its influence on the world stage.
To address these emerging geopolitical challenges, Mr. Davey proposed two key measures: the establishment of a new rearmament bank and the seizure of Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s defence. He urged the Prime Minister to engage with European allies on these initiatives, emphasizing the need for concrete financial and military support for Ukraine.
“Did the Prime Minister discuss with our European allies our proposals for a new rearmament bank and for seizing the tens of billions of pounds-worth of Russian assets to support Ukraine?” Davey asked, his questions highlighting an urgent call for action, pushing the government to explore alternative sources of support as traditional alliances become increasingly uncertain.
Additionally, Mr. Davey stressed the importance of solidarity with Canada, a key Commonwealth partner, in the wake of President Trump’s recent threats. “In his conversations with the Canadian Prime Minister, was he clear that we stand with our Commonwealth ally?” he questioned. This sentiment echoes growing concerns that Trump’s foreign policy may create rifts not only between the United States and its allies but also within global coalitions that have long ensured stability and security.
Beyond international strategy, Mr. Davey also addressed concerns over messaging and policy consistency within the UK government. He referenced comments made by Lord Mandelson, suggesting they had caused confusion regarding Britain’s official stance on the matter. Seeking clarification, he asked the Prime Minister to confirm that Mandelson’s remarks did not represent official government policy.
Moreover, he criticised the apparent independence taken by the British ambassador in the United States, questioning whether his actions on American television aligned with the UK’s diplomatic priorities. “Does the Prime Minister agree that the British ambassador should not be freelancing on American TV?” he inquired.
Despite his criticisms and concerns, Mr. Davey concluded with a firm commitment to bipartisan support for the UK’s leadership on Ukraine. “The Prime Minister will have our support if the UK continues to lead with our European and Commonwealth allies for Ukraine’s defence and our collective security,” he stated, reflecting a broader consensus within Parliament that, regardless of party differences, Britain must remain steadfast in its support for Ukraine and its commitment to international security.
As global power dynamics continue to shift, the UK’s role as a leader in international diplomacy will be tested. The coming months will reveal whether Britain can successfully navigate these turbulent waters, maintaining its influence and commitment to democratic values in an increasingly uncertain world.
