The UK, France, and Ukraine have agreed to collaborate on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday, ahead of a summit with European leaders focused on ending the war.
The summit, which had been overshadowed by the tense exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday, is now seen as a crucial opportunity for re-engaging peace talks. Starmer emphasized that the aim was not to escalate tensions but to work toward a resolution. “We’ve now agreed that the UK, France, and possibly others will work with Ukraine on a plan to end the fighting and discuss it with the U.S.,” Starmer said in an interview. The summit, which will also include discussions on establishing a European military force to support a ceasefire, underscores the growing role of Europe in the negotiations.
Starmer expressed his trust in Trump’s commitment to peace, despite skepticism about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intentions. He highlighted the importance of securing U.S. security guarantees as part of a lasting peace agreement.
The meeting at Lancaster House, which includes leaders from France, Germany, Italy, and other European nations, is a response to the evolving dynamics of the conflict, especially with Trump’s direct talks with Putin and his controversial remarks about Zelenskyy.
European leaders have rallied behind Zelenskyy following the White House incident, reaffirming their support for Ukraine’s struggle against Russia. Starmer, who met privately with Zelenskyy, reiterated the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, noting that public support for the country was strong across Britain. Meanwhile, discussions at the summit will also focus on increasing defense spending across Europe to ensure greater security and to bolster Ukraine’s position in future negotiations.
