Keir Starmer held discussions with Donald Trump during a critical juncture concerning Ukraine, according to No10. The Prime Minister, along with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, participated in the call, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to bring an end to Vladimir Putin’s conflict in Ukraine.
Following comments by Putin’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, lauding Trump as the sole Western leader who comprehends the underlying reasons for the war in Ukraine, Trump criticized European leaders for their perceived weakness and their handling of the conflict in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced plans to present new peace proposals to US negotiators before pivotal discussions with allies on Thursday.
A Downing Street spokesperson confirmed that the leaders engaged in dialogue on the latest developments in the US-led peace talks, expressing support for endeavors aimed at achieving a just and enduring peace in Ukraine. The leaders stressed the critical nature of the moment for Ukraine, its populace, and the shared security of the Euro-Atlantic region.
The call transpired a day before urgent deliberations involving Trump and representatives from approximately 30 nations backing Kyiv’s efforts to reach a favorable resolution to the conflict. Zelensky indicated readiness for a potential election within three months, provided safe voting conditions are guaranteed amidst wartime challenges and electoral regulations are adjusted.
Zelensky navigates a delicate balance between safeguarding Ukrainian interests and demonstrating a willingness to make concessions to Trump, despite Moscow’s apparent reluctance to shift its stance. Ukraine’s European allies support Zelensky’s pursuit of a fair settlement that deters future Russian aggression while also addressing European defense concerns.
The French government highlighted that the Coalition of the Willing, comprising Ukraine’s allies, will convene via video conference on Thursday to discuss the ongoing negotiations. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged a significant diplomatic push towards achieving peace, while Zelensky planned discussions with the US to outline strategies for Ukraine’s post-war recovery and economic progress.
Additionally, Ukraine nears completion of a comprehensive 20-point framework aimed at resolving the conflict, with plans to submit the document to Washington soon. Putin’s objections to Zelensky’s legitimacy in peace negotiations based on his expired term and Trump’s aspiration to enhance US-Russia relations and restore strategic stability were underscored in a recent US national security strategy.
Lavrov commended Trump’s involvement in the Ukraine peace process, hailing his commitment to dialogue during a speech in Russia’s upper house of parliament.