NATO allies will be in Vladimir Putin's sights if Russia is victorious in Ukraine, Grant Shapps warned.
The Defence Secretary said the nightmare scenario might encourage China - risking global security.
Mr Shapps urged the West to ramp up efforts to expel Kremlin invaders from Ukraine, saying: "There's no world in which Putin can be allowed to win.
"Not only would it embolden him, putting our other Eastern European allies in Russia's crosshairs, but it would also signal to China that everything is up for grabs. There can be no wavering. No fence sitting.
"Putin believes the West can be worn down. He believes we lack strategic patience. And we must prove him wrong." Mr Shapps' rallying cry, in an article for the Politico website, marks the start of a hugely significant political year. Nearly half of the world's population heads to the polls in 2024 - national elections include ones being held in the UK, US and India.
Mr Shapps added: "Ukraine's future is in the West's hands. We cannot let them down."
Citizen
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Denne historien er fra January 25, 2024-utgaven av Daily Express.
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'I want the chance to prove myself again'
PEP GUARDIOLA feels the need to prove himself all over again-despite his glittering successes at Manchester City.
SEAN HAILS BRAVE CALL
SEAN DYCHE says Everton made a \"brave decision\" to reject Manchester United's £50million offer for Jarrad Branthwaite.
Howe looks to end Toon striking issue
EDDIE HOWE is banking on the competition between Alexander Isak and fit-again Callum Wilson to spark a faltering attack.
Iraola won't play it by the book
ANDONI IRAOLA admits Bournemouth will miss Antoine Semenyo but is happy to accept yellow cards as the price for the club's style of play.
McKenna refuses to rest on laurels and asks for more
KIERAN MCKENNA has warned Ipswich they must build on their improving Premier League form.
Davies sends Blades to top of pack
TOM DAVIES came off the bench to score a late winner as Sheffield United went top.
STAYING AT RED BULL IS TARGET FOR MAX LEGACY
Champion insists he does not need to win elsewhere
How Pope managed to get out of a Stew
OLLIE POPE revealed a heart-to-heart with his mentor Alec Stewart helped pave the way for his timely return to form against New Zealand.
Former intern fights boss for half his £1m company
AN antiques dealer to the stars is locked in a bitter court fight with a former intern who says she has a right to half of his £1million firm.
Highgrrrove's not too ruff for us...
MISSY the English cocker spaniel looks excited to be meeting a King Charles, but Percy the white bichon cross appears to have realised her mistake...
