Keir Starmer has engaged in discussions with Donald Trump during a pivotal time for Ukraine, as stated by No10. The Prime Minister was accompanied by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the call. The leaders emphasized the ongoing efforts to halt Vladimir Putin’s violent conflict in Ukraine.
In response to Putin’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, labeling the US President as the only Western leader comprehending the circumstances leading to the war in Ukraine, Trump criticized European leaders, accusing them of appearing feeble and allowing Kyiv to fight to exhaustion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced plans to present new peace proposals to US negotiators before crucial talks with allies on Thursday. A spokesperson from Downing Street confirmed that the Prime Minister conversed with President Trump, President Macron, and Chancellor Merz about the latest developments in the US-led peace negotiations, acknowledging the importance of achieving a just and enduring peace in Ukraine and ending the bloodshed.
The call occurred a day before urgent discussions with leaders and officials from approximately 30 nations supporting Kyiv’s efforts to conclude the war on acceptable terms. Trump is advocating for a resolution and is advocating for an election in Ukraine. Zelensky expressed readiness for an election within three months if secure voting conditions during wartime are guaranteed and electoral laws are adjusted. The US’s push for a swift resolution to cease the conflict is limiting Kyiv’s flexibility.
Zelensky is delicately balancing defending Ukrainian interests while demonstrating a willingness to compromise with Trump, despite Moscow showing no willingness to change its demands publicly. European allies of Ukraine are endorsing Zelensky’s endeavors to ensure a just settlement that deters future Russian aggression and aligns with Europe’s defense interests. The French government mentioned that Ukraine’s allies, known as the Coalition of the Willing, will convene for negotiations on Thursday via video conference.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted substantial diplomatic progress in peace efforts in Berlin. Zelensky scheduled discussions with the US to focus on a post-war reconstruction and economic development plan for Ukraine. Additionally, Ukraine is finalizing a 20-point framework to end the conflict, with plans to submit the document to Washington soon.
Putin has argued that Zelensky lacks legitimacy to negotiate a peace deal due to his expired five-year term, which began in 2019. Trump’s national security strategy aims to enhance relations with Moscow and re-establish strategic stability with Russia. Lavrov commended Trump’s involvement in the Ukraine peace process, praising his commitment to dialogue during a speech at Russia’s Federation Council.