James Crisp. Freelance journalist in Brussels.
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May defends EU response to Aleppo bombing, as Russian warships sail in English Channel
British Prime Minister Theresa May today (21 October) insisted that EU leaders’ response to Moscow’s bombing of Aleppo was a success, as Russian warships passed through the English Channel on their way to Syria.
In another blow to British self-esteem, May was forced to field questions over reports that the European Commission chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wanted the divorce talks to be held in French.
May told reporters, “Negotiations will be conducted in a way that will get the right deal for the UK.”
At her debut European Council in Brussels, May had called for a robust and unified European response to Russia.
The UK, France and Germany secured condemning language against Russia, potentially paving the way for future sanctions, in the Council conclusions.
May was asked how seriously those words could be taken, given that today, under the watchful eye of the Royal Navy, the Russian ships were in the Channel.
She said, “I think we had a very good discussion in relation to Russia and its actions in Syria and the impact we are seeing in the indiscriminate bombing of citizens in Aleppo.
“We were very clear about Russia and the need for the EU to be very clear that all options were open.”
