Brief
Former NATO official says Putin is winning in Ukraine and urges UK action
John Lough, former NATO official, claims Russia holds the upper hand in the Ukraine war and urges a stronger UK stance.
By Felo News Desk · Published
John Lough, a former Moscow‑based NATO official now heading foreign policy at the New Eurasian Strategies Centre, told The Independent that Vladimir Putin believes he is winning the war in Ukraine and that the United Kingdom should increase its response.
What happened
Lough said that despite recent Ukrainian successes in the Donbas and long‑range missile strikes over the summer, the Kremlin retains the advantage, particularly in the air campaign. He warned that the situation could deteriorate quickly and that Western leaders may not fully grasp the implications.
What the reports add
The article notes that UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged “100 per cent” support for Kyiv and that Labour leader Keir Starmer’s predecessor, Andy Burnham, has continued that stance. Lough added that many in the West think the tide is turning after Ukraine caused a nationwide fuel crisis in Russia, but he called that perception “deceptive”.
What was said
"Putin thinks he's winning, and I think he's right," Lough told the newspaper. He also said, "I'm not sure that our esteemed leaders have got their mind around what it actually means, and how quickly the situation in Ukraine could deteriorate." He urged Burnham to "step up" the UK's response to Russia.
How it came about
The comments follow a series of recent Felo News pieces on heightened Russian activity, including warnings of hybrid drone strikes and potential limited attacks on NATO members.
Key facts
- John Lough, former NATO official, says Putin believes he is winning the war in Ukraine. (independent.co.uk)
- Lough urges UK Deputy Prime Minister Andy Burnham to step up the British response to Russia. (independent.co.uk)
- Lough claims Russia holds the upper hand in the air campaign despite Ukrainian missile strikes. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Putin thinks he’s winning – and I think he’s right, warns ex-Nato official”
