Liz Truss says, one of the reasons we are facing this global crisis is because, collectively the West failed to do enough.
“We became complacent. We did not spend enough on defence. We became too dependent on authoritarian regimes for cheap goods and energy,” she tells the crowd in Birmingham.
She goes on to say the country “did not stand up to Russia early enough” but “we will ensure this never happens again.”
“So we are taking decisive action to reinforce our energy security,” Ms Truss says.
“We are opening more gas fields in the North Sea and delivering more renewables and nuclear energy.
“That is how we will protect the great British environment, deliver on our commitment to net zero, and tackle climate change.
“We are also taking decisive action to strengthen our borders by beefing up our Border Force and expanding the Rwanda scheme.
“Our brilliant new home secretary will bring forward legislation to make sure that no European judge can overrule us.”
Ms Truss also says Vladimir Putin’s “illegal annexation of Ukrainian territory is the latest act in his campaign to subvert democracy and violate international law”.
“We should not give in to those who want a deal which trades away Ukrainian land,” she adds.