Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, has expressed strong support for Ukraine in advance of a significant summit addressing the ongoing conflict and security concerns. In a statement ahead of the gathering of world leaders taking place in London, Starmer indicated a pivotal moment in the war, citing the urgency for collective action to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
On Saturday, Starmer welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Downing Street, where they formalised a new loan deal intended to bolster Ukraine's defence capabilities. This meeting followed a tumultuous encounter for Zelenskyy with US President Donald Trump, which took place just a day prior in the Oval Office.
Today, Starmer, alongside Zelenskyy, will be at a summit that includes numerous leaders from member states of the European Union and NATO, as well as other allied nations. Notable attendees include Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and leaders from Denmark, Norway, Poland, Canada, Finland, and Romania. The summit will also feature EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, among others.
Starmer, who has committed to increasing the UK’s defence expenditure to 2.5% of its economic output by 2027, articulated in a statement: "Three years on from Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point". He reaffirmed his "unwavering support" for Ukraine, vowing to strengthen its position through training and aid. He highlighted the importance of European unity in securing peace, stating: "We must intensify our preparations for the European element of security guarantees alongside continued discussions with the United States".
During their meeting at Number 10, Starmer and Zelenskyy exchanged friendly gestures, with a hug shared upon their greeting. Starmer reassured Zelenskyy of the UK's steadfast support, expressing hope that the enthusiasm of the British public reflected the nation's determination to back Ukraine in its quest for peace. Zelenskyy reciprocated the warm sentiments, thanking Starmer and the British people for their ongoing support.
Following the meeting, both leaders took to social media to discuss the crucial topics addressed. Starmer referred to the encounter as an "honour" while posting "Slava Ukraini", meaning "Glory to Ukraine". Zelenskyy announced the significant £2.26 billion loan, which is expected to be repaid through revenues from frozen Russian assets, marking a collaborative effort between the UK and Ukraine's finance ministers to bolster defence mechanisms.
The backdrop to this visit has been complicated. Data suggest Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump was fraught, ending in conflict as the Ukrainian leader sought to negotiate a ceasefire with Russia and establish a mineral deal with the US. In contrast, Starmer's engagement with Trump was reported as constructive, indicating a divergence in how the two leaders are navigating international relations at such a critical juncture.
Zelenskyy is anticipated to meet King Charles following the summit, as he continues to rally support for Ukraine on the global stage.
Source: Noah Wire Services