The foreign secretary is touring Europe in support of countries battling Russian influences as they continue to support Ukraine during the invasion by Moscow. Bosnia and Herzegovina has been a strong partner of the UK’s during the war, writes news.sky.com
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss will meet armed forces personnel in Bosnia and Herzegovina to re-affirm the UK’s commitment to peace and stability in the western Balkans.
Ms Truss will warn against the “appeasement” of Vladimir Putin in the face of malign Russian influence in the region as the war with Ukraine continues.
She will use a speech to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s armed forces to rally allies to greater support for Ukraine, including delivering more weapons and targeted sanctions.
The foreign secretary will also argue that “we must all learn the lessons of history” to stand up to Mr Putin and ensure he loses in Ukraine.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has been a vocal partner of the UK in the western Balkans in calling out Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.
At Sarajevo’s Army Hall, the foreign secretary will say: “Russia’s aggression cannot be appeased. It must be met with strength.
“We must not allow a prolonged and increasingly painful conflict to develop in Ukraine.
“We must be relentless in ensuring Ukraine prevails through military aid and sanctions.
“We can’t take our foot off the accelerator now.”
She will praise the Czech Republic for its tough stance towards Russia, including supplying Ukraine tanks and urging more countries to follow its example.
