Two UK trade unions have declined to support a motion to criticise Russia's war on Ukraine - with one even condemning Britain from supporting Kyiv.
During the Trades Union Congress conference, The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) voted against plans, arguing that space for workers to discuss the issue has been “shut down”.
Similarly, the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union also refused to back the motion but denied any further comments.
Speaking at the conference, FBU representative, Jamie Newell said the invasion by Russia was a “crime” and that his union condemned it.
Vehicles on fire, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in the Odesa region of Ukraine
Reuters
However, the group refused to back the motion because they claimed it was an example of “one of UK military intervention”.
Newell said: “We are proud of our history of internationalism, we oppose this composite.
“The space for workers to debate this has been shut down.”
The FBU say they support “elements” of the motion, but condemned Britain’s involvement.
The union added: “We do not believe that the escalation of war offers anything to the working class in Russia or Ukraine.
“Remember that a bayonet is a weapon with a worker at both ends."
Newell said: “We oppose these groups and we do not support arming them now only for them to become a threat in the future. And yet the composite stays silent on this issue.”
The motion, which passed, stated: “As trade unionists we are inherently anti-imperialistic, and our job is to fight imperialism and tyranny at every opportunity.
The group explained that they did not agree with the motion because they claim it was 'one of UK military intervention'
Reuters
"We recognise that a victory for Putin in Ukraine will be a success for reactionary authoritarian politics across the world.”
However, Newell said: “Whilst the motion mentions opposition to imperialism and imperialist interests, they exist in both sides of this conflict.
“Anyone who reviews the military interventions of the past 20 years must recognise that – you only have to look at Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya.”