By admin 
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled a four-point strategy to strengthen Ukraine’s defense and push for a lasting peace agreement, as European nations step up their efforts amid uncertainty over US involvement.
European Nations Rally Behind Ukraine
Speaking after a summit attended by 18 world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Starmer emphasized that Europe must take the lead in supporting Ukraine while seeking collaboration with the US.
“We are at a crossroads in history today,” Starmer said, as Zelensky expressed gratitude for the “strong support” shown at the gathering, calling it an unprecedented display of European unity.
The summit comes shortly after a tense exchange between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump in Washington, which has cast doubt over the level of American support moving forward.
Four-Point Plan for Ukraine
Starmer outlined four key commitments agreed upon by the coalition:
- Continued Military and Economic Pressure – Ensuring a steady supply of military aid to Ukraine while intensifying sanctions on Russia.
- Ukraine’s Role in Peace Talks – Any negotiations must guarantee Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, with Kyiv playing an active role.
- Long-Term Defense Support – In the event of a peace deal, Ukraine’s military capabilities will be bolstered to prevent future aggression.
- Formation of a ‘Coalition of the Willing’ – A group of allied nations will stand together to defend Ukraine’s security and uphold any agreement reached.
UK Pledges Billions in Military Support
As part of the UK’s commitment, Starmer announced an additional £1.6 billion ($2 billion) in export financing to supply Ukraine with over 5,000 air defense missiles. This follows a £2.2 billion loan, backed by profits from frozen Russian assets, to further boost Ukraine’s military capabilities.
“We cannot accept a weak deal that Russia can easily violate. Any peace agreement must be backed by strength,” Starmer stated.
Truce Proposal and European Defense Readiness
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that France and the UK are proposing a one-month ceasefire covering air, sea, and energy infrastructure, though it remains unclear whether Russia would agree.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also stressed the urgency of “re-arming Europe”, a sentiment echoed by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who underscored the importance of sustained military aid for Ukraine.
Zelensky and the US: A Fractured Relationship?
After the summit, Zelensky traveled to Sandringham for a meeting with King Charles III. He later confirmed that Ukraine was prepared to sign a minerals agreement with the US, which would grant American companies access to Ukraine’s rare mineral reserves.
However, the deal, initially expected to be finalized during Zelensky’s Washington visit, was postponed following a heated confrontation with Trump and Vice President JD Vance. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has since warned that the agreement “cannot be signed without a peace deal with Russia.”
Trump’s Stance on the War
Trump has repeatedly stated his desire to end the war and has suggested that Ukraine should negotiate directly with Russia. His controversial comments—at times appearing to trust Russian President Vladimir Putin—have alarmed European allies.
During his meeting with Zelensky, Trump reportedly accused Ukraine of “gambling with World War Three”, even going as far as to claim that Kyiv was responsible for starting the conflict—despite Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022.
What’s Next?
While Starmer’s summit has reinforced European solidarity, questions remain over the US’s commitment under Trump’s leadership. As Ukraine continues to fight for its sovereignty, European nations appear determined to fill any gaps in support—but whether that will be enough remains to be seen.
Gill Bikram Singh