British Prime Minister reveals intention to "both hit and comfort" Russia

British Prime Minister Theresa May. Photo: AP.

According to The Guardian (UK), Prime Minister May's leaked speech will mention the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the city of Salisbury, England. In addition, the leader will also give glowing words about the allies' response to the incident, which Russia is accused of being the culprit.

"In response to the attack in Salisbury, in conjunction with our allies, we have carried out the largest-ever collective expulsion of Russian intelligence officers, which has decimated Russia's intelligence capabilities for years to come. Through diligent investigation and cooperation with our allies, UK law enforcement agencies have found irrefutable evidence for the Crown Prosecution Service to prosecute these individuals," The Guardian revealed the content of Mrs. May's speech.

At the same time, the Prime Minister will also emphasize that collective response measures are a symbol of the will to protect the values ​​and democracy of Western countries.

"In this case, we have seen the power of a united international community, coming together to provide a collective response. We have seen that the challenge, however present, cannot overcome the collective determination of like-minded partners to defend values, democracy and people," wrote The Guardian.

However, the British leader also took a "both-punches-and-comforts" approach to Russia by affirming that London still wants to improve relations with Moscow.

"The current relationship with Russia is not the relationship Britain wants," Mrs. May is expected to say.

Former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia Skripal. Photo: Mirror.

Previously in March, former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia Skripal were found unconscious in a shopping mall in Salisbury (UK). Shortly after, London reported that Moscow was behind the attack using a nerve agent called A234 (also known as Novichok). Shortly after the incident, the UK announced the expulsion of 23 Russian diplomats, whom it said were Moscow's intelligence officers. Following this move, more than 25 other countries expelled Russian diplomats to show "unity" with London.

For its part, Russia denied Britain's accusations, while repeatedly pointing out that London deliberately failed to provide enough evidence to prove its claims.