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Sir Keir Starmer has affirmed his commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty ahead of his upcoming talks with Donald Trump next week. In a phone call with Ukraine’s President, Starmer emphasized the need for continued international support in defending the country’s territorial integrity.
During a Saturday phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the UK Prime Minister reiterated the country’s unwavering support for Kyiv. This was their second discussion within four days, prompted by President Donald Trump’s decision to rekindle US-Russia relations and seek a resolution to the Ukraine conflict.
As the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches on Monday, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has vowed to escalate sanctions against Moscow. Meanwhile, over the weekend, about 2,000 protesters marched through west London, rallying outside the Russian embassy in solidarity with Ukraine.
A Downing Street spokesperson stated that the prime minister reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering stance, emphasizing that “Ukraine must be at the heart of any negotiations to end the war.” He assured Kyiv of “the UK’s commitment to securing a just and enduring peace to bring an end to Russia’s illegal war.”
Giving details about the phone call, Downing Street said Sir Keir and Zelensky “agreed that this was a significant moment for the future of Ukraine and European security at large”. Sir Keir also told Zelensky “that safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty was essential to deter future aggression from Russia”.
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The prime minister added “he would be progressing these important discussions in the coming days and weeks, including with Trump whilst visiting Washington DC next week”. Zelensky said he had a productive talk with Sir Keir, with the pair coordinating “our military cooperation, joint steps, and engagements for the coming week, which will be very active”.
In a post on X, he wrote: “The UK and its people are among Ukraine’s biggest supporters, and we deeply appreciate this.”
Writing in the Sun Sir Keir said Trump was right that European nations must take greater responsibility for their security and increase defence spending.
“We have talked about this for long enough. Now it is time for action.
“President Trump is also right to grasp the nettle and see if a good peace deal is on the table.
“Every time I have spoken with him, I am struck by his commitment to peace,” he wrote.
