UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled a four-point plan aimed at securing peace in Ukraine and strengthening the country’s defense against Russia. The announcement came after a summit with 18 world leaders—mostly from Europe—including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Speaking after the summit, Starmer emphasized the urgency of the situation, declaring, “We are at a crossroads in history today.” Zelensky echoed this sentiment, describing the meeting as a display of “European unity at an extremely high level not seen for a long time.”
The summit followed a tense encounter between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump at the White House. Despite the friction, Starmer highlighted the importance of European leadership while acknowledging the need for American support.
Starmer outlined the coalition’s commitments:
- Sustaining Military Aid: Continue delivering military aid to Ukraine while increasing economic pressure on Russia.
- Upholding Ukrainian Sovereignty: Ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security while making sure the country is involved in any peace talks.
- Strengthening Defense: In the event of a peace agreement, enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities to prevent future invasions.
- Building a Coalition: Form a “coalition of the willing” to defend any future peace deal and guarantee long-term stability.
The UK has pledged an additional £1.6 billion ($2 billion) in export financing for Ukraine to purchase over 5,000 air defense missiles. This supplements a £2.2 billion loan for military aid, funded by profits from frozen Russian assets.
“We cannot accept a weak deal that Russia can breach with ease,” Starmer asserted, vowing to back commitments with “boots on the ground, and planes in the air.”
Despite Starmer’s diplomatic push, tensions remain with the US. Trump has expressed skepticism toward Ukraine and suggested he trusts Russian President Vladimir Putin. During their heated White House meeting, Trump reportedly accused Ukraine of “gambling with World War Three.”
Adding to the strain, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that a key minerals agreement between Ukraine and the US could not be signed without a peace deal with Russia. Zelensky, however, insisted that the agreement remains ready for signature.
France and the UK are also pushing for a one-month truce on air, sea, and energy infrastructure, as confirmed by French President Emmanuel Macron. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised the summit, describing it as a clear sign that Europe is “stepping up” to support Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the need to “re-arm Europe” in light of ongoing threats.
The summit capped a week of intense diplomacy, including visits to Washington by Starmer, Macron, and Zelensky. While European leaders advocate for unity and a robust peace deal, the US has reportedly begun separate peace talks with Russia—without Ukraine’s participation.
As the diplomatic push continues, Starmer made it clear that Europe must lead the charge but cannot succeed without American involvement. “Let me be clear,” he said, “we agree with Trump on the urgent need for a durable peace. Now we need to deliver together.”
