Labour's Russia policy: Managing modern threats

Top lines

There is cross-party recognition that Russia poses a security threat to the UK.

This threat has changed with geopolitical and technological developments, particularly in relation to cybersecurity and Russia’s regional influence in the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

The range of threats also includes the influence of democratic elections, the use of ‘dirty money’, infiltration of online media, Russian military activity in British sea and air space, and the targeting of Russian exiles in the UK.

Labour must develop and present a clear policy towards Russia which takes these threats seriously. This is important for voter-perception if Labour wishes to be seen as a government-in-waiting.

As the UK leaves the EU and a Biden administration takes over the White House, it is more important than ever that Labour calls for multilateral engagement with allies to develop a joint approach towards Russia.

Image credit: Russian president Vladimir Putin speaks at the 2019 BRICS leaders summit in Brasília. Isac Nóbrega/PR via Flickr.