UK Prime Minister to Discuss Ukraine’s Future with Trump Amid Tension

London, UK — UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized his commitment to Ukraine during a recent conversation with President Volodymyr Zelensky, discussing the significance of Ukraine’s sovereignty ahead of talks with US President Donald Trump planned for next week. The call occurred on Saturday, just days before the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

During the call, Starmer reiterated the UK’s “ironclad support” for Kyiv. He stated, “Ukraine must be at the heart of any negotiations to end the war,” underlining the importance of establishing a just and lasting peace. Starmer’s conversation with Zelensky marked their second discussion in four days following Trump’s announcement to re-engage with Russia as part of efforts to de-escalate the ongoing conflict.

On Monday, Foreign Secretary David Lammy will announce further sanctions against Russia, as a way to reinforce the UK’s stance against ongoing aggression. This response coincided with a public demonstration in London, where approximately 2,000 protesters marched to the Russian embassy to express solidarity with Ukraine.

Following their talks, Downing Street noted that both leaders shared the view that this moment is crucial for Ukraine and European security. Starmer characterized the safeguarding of Ukraine’s sovereignty as essential to deterring future Russian aggression.

Starmer added that he intends to further his discussions with Trump concerning Ukraine’s future during his visit to Washington, DC next week. Zelensky expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the call, indicating that both countries are coordinating military cooperation for an active week ahead.

Zelensky highlighted the UK’s unwavering support throughout Ukraine’s struggle. “The UK and its people are among Ukraine’s biggest supporters, and we deeply appreciate this,” he stated. Meanwhile, Trump, while criticizing European leaders for their collective inaction towards the conflict, acknowledged the need for European nations to take greater responsibility for their defense and security.

In a direct commentary about negotiations involving Ukraine, Starmer emphasized, “Every time I have spoken with Trump, I have been struck by his commitment to peace,” reiterating that Ukraine deserves a voice in negotiations and strong security assurances moving forward.

In parallel developments, discussions about the future of Ukraine continue with European leaders, including a call between Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who agreed on the necessity for Europe to step up collective security efforts. Lammy assured that upcoming sanctions would undermine President Vladimir Putin’s military capabilities.

As international dialogue unfolds, the sentiments in Ukraine reflect concern over the potential exclusion from peace talks, with officials expressing the importance of Ukrainian involvement in any agreements. UK Defence Secretary John Healey reinforced that any negotiations must include Ukraine, stating, “A hope for peace cannot exist without Ukraine at the table.”

The backdrop of these negotiations is a complex and evolving situation, marked by ongoing discussions and protests as stakeholders navigate the challenging landscape in seeking a resolution to the conflict.