Johnson welcomes moves to exclude Russia from Swift banking system
The Prime Minister said it was essential to isolate Russia financially and diplomatically following invasion of Ukraine.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Boris Johnson has welcomed fresh impetus to exclude Russia from the Swift global banking system after Germany dropped its opposition to the plan.
In a dramatic move, Chancellor Olaf Scholz also announced Berlin would start sending arms to the beleaguered Ukrainian military.
It marked a reversal of Germany’s long-standing policy of not sending lethal weaponry to conflict zones.
In a telephone call between Mr Johnson and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the two leaders welcomed the “increased willingness” internationally to take action against Russia on Swift.
“The leaders agreed on the need for the international community to isolate Russia completely diplomatically and financially,” a No 10 spokeswoman said.
Mr Zelensky welcomed Britain’s commitment to send more arms, including ammunition and anti-tank weapons, to support the Ukrainian forces in their fight against the Russian invader.
He said on Twitter that they had “agreed on further joint steps to counter the aggressor”.