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LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to commit to a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, emphasizing that genuine intentions for peace must be reflected in action. In a move to intensify pressure on the Kremlin, Starmer announced that discussions among allied nations are transitioning to an “operational phase” regarding potential peacekeeping forces.
During a two-hour video conference with approximately 30 world leaders, Starmer criticized the Kremlin for its “dithering and delay” in responding to a ceasefire proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump and condemned the continued attacks on Ukraine, which run counter to Putin’s claims of seeking peace.
“The ball is now in Russia’s court,” Starmer stated, insisting that Putin must demonstrate his commitment to peace by agreeing to a ceasefire with no preconditions.
Leaders participating in the call included European figures such as French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, along with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and representatives from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, alongside officials from NATO and the European Union.
This meeting, the second in two weeks, was organized by Starmer to bolster support for Ukraine amid a change in U.S. policy following Trump’s return to office. The participation of more nations in this latest discourse highlights an increasing collective resolve and new commitments for both Ukraine’s defense and European security.
Starmer underscored the unwavering commitment of the participating nations to Ukraine’s long-term security needs, asserting that the nation must remain capable of self-defense to avert future Russian incursions. He stated that forthcoming meetings of military planners in the U.K. would focus on actionable strategies for bolstering Ukraine’s security arrangements.
While specifics were not disclosed, Starmer indicated that allied forces are prepared to deploy troops to Ukraine to ensure peace following any ceasefire agreement. The U.K. and France are spearheading efforts to rally Ukraine’s allies to contribute troops, weaponry, and other resources to a European military contingent that could provide reassurance to Ukraine and deter further aggression from Russia.
“We are committed to enhancing Ukraine’s defenses and armed forces, and we stand ready as a ‘coalition of the willing’ to support a peace deal, ensuring security on land, at sea, and in the air,” he remarked.
The discussions unfolded in light of a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, which Zelenskyy has publicly supported. Although Putin has signaled a willingness to consider a truce, he has outlined multiple conditions that require clarification before he can agree. Starmer noted the Ukrainian president’s endorsement of an unconditional ceasefire, asserting that Ukraine is indeed the “party of peace.”
Zelenskyy has urged stronger sanctions against Russia to compel the acceptance of a ceasefire without conditions—a step he believes is necessary for negotiating a genuine peace. He emphasized that “Moscow understands one language,” advocating for a ceasefire period free from hostilities to create a viable opportunity for substantive negotiations.
Moreover, Zelenskyy indicated that it should not be within Putin’s purview to dictate the presence of foreign forces in Ukraine after a peace agreement, expressing support for a European military presence backed by the U.S. “If Putin wishes to station foreign troops in Russia, that is his prerogative, but he has no authority to determine Ukraine’s or Europe’s security,” Zelenskyy stated.
In recent shifts, the U.S. has adopted a new stance regarding the war since Trump’s re-election. This change became particularly evident after a recent meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy. Starmer, along with Macron, is actively working to keep a united front among allies and persuade Trump to maintain support for Ukraine, reinforcing the need for European nations to bolster their defense expenditures for enhanced security.
Trump expressed optimism about the situation, noting that communications with Russian representatives had yielded positive indications regarding a potential ceasefire. “I’m hearing encouraging sentiments concerning a ceasefire and an eventual agreement coming from Russia,” he commented.
With Ukraine facing intense military pressures on numerous fronts three years post-invasion, the nation has already backed the call for a truce. Analysts observe that as Russian forces gain tactical advantages, Putin may be hesitant to agree to a ceasefire until he feels secure in his position.
“Eventually, Putin will need to engage in negotiations,” Starmer asserted. “This is the moment to halt the violence, cease the inhumane attacks on Ukraine, and reach an agreement for a ceasefire.”
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globalnews.ca