UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that he never thought he would witness the occupation of countries by Russia again after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
He made this comment in an interview with The New York Times, as reported by Ukrinform.
“I still remember how I felt when the Berlin Wall came down. It was the beginning of a new era where values of democracy and freedom would prevail. I didn’t think that in my lifetime, I’d see Russian occupation of countries again,” Starmer said.
He emphasized that the time for discussions about increasing defense spending has passed, and now it’s time for action on this issue.
“For a number of years, European countries have been saying we need to step up on defense and security, but we haven’t done it. I feel very strongly that the moment for talking is over and the moment for action is now,” the UK Prime Minister added.
The Berlin Wall, which was approximately 168 kilometers long, existed from August 13, 1961, to November 9, 1989. It was one of the most iconic symbols of the Cold War and the division of Germany.
Many people attempted to cross the wall during this time. According to various sources, between 136 and 245 defectors were killed, though the exact number of casualties at the wall remains unknown.
Photo: PA
Source: Starmer: The moment for talking is over and the moment for action is now
