Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday as European leaders dealt with the aftermath of a heated exchange in which Donald Trump publicly reprimanded the Ukrainian president.
Before their meeting, Starmer reassured Zelenskyy, saying, “We stand with you, with Ukraine, for as long as it may take. And I hope you’ve heard the cheers in the streets, as the people of the United Kingdom demonstrate their support for you, for Ukraine, and our determination to stand by you.” Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude, thanking the people of the UK for their unwavering support from the start of the war. He also mentioned that he would meet with King Charles on Sunday.
Following their conversation, Zelenskyy was seen leaving 10 Downing Street with Starmer, though neither of them made a statement to the media.
On Sunday, European leaders are expected to convene for an emergency summit to discuss Russia and a potential peace plan for Ukraine.
British Prime Minister Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have been actively working to ensure that Trump continues to back Ukraine, following Russia’s invasion three years ago. However, the public confrontation in the Oval Office has raised concerns about the future of US support and whether the United States might pursue a closer relationship with Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
In response, European countries have strongly supported Ukraine, with differences within the transatlantic alliance becoming more apparent. EU Foreign Minister Kaja Kallas stated, “It’s clear that the free world needs a new leader. Europeans must rise to this challenge.”
The meeting on Friday, intended to kick-start negotiations on a deal regarding Ukraine’s critical minerals, deteriorated into conflict, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance accusing Zelenskyy of ingratitude. European leaders quickly rallied behind Zelenskyy, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praising his “dignity” and reaffirming Europe’s commitment to working for a “just and lasting peace.”
