Starmer Announces UK and France Collaborating on a Comprehensive Peace Plan for Ukraine

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced that the UK and France will partner with Ukraine to create a plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. Afterward, they’ll share this plan with the United States.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is attending a summit of European leaders shortly after a tense meeting with US President Donald Trump. Sir Keir expressed his goal to act as a bridge between these two leaders, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration.

When discussing the heated exchange he witnessed between Trump and Zelensky, Sir Keir admitted it was uncomfortable to watch. However, he focused on solutions rather than dwelling on the conflict. That very night, he reached out to both leaders to help refocus their discussions on peace.

Sir Keir explained that there are two paths ahead. One could be to escalate tensions and outrage. The other way, which he preferred, was to engage directly with both leaders and involve French President Emmanuel Macron in the dialogue. After three years of conflict, he believes it’s essential to find a path to lasting peace.

In the interview, Sir Keir refrained from placing blame and expressed his belief that both Trump and Zelensky are committed to achieving peace. He stated that while both leaders can be trusted, Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot. This mistrust is why he insists that the US must provide security assurances in any peace agreement.

Sir Keir acknowledged the need for a European security pact, driven by a “coalition of the willing.” He remarked that Europe must step up its defense capabilities and coordination, especially given the ongoing situation in Ukraine. This is a call for nations to work together more effectively.

Recently, the Prime Minister revealed plans to reduce the foreign aid budget to boost defense spending to 2.5% of the national income by 2027. This decision sparked the resignation of his International Development Minister, Anneliese Dodds. His move follows Trump’s challenge for NATO allies to raise their defense budgets to 5% of their national income.

Currently, France spends 2.1% on defense and has plans to increase this spending by 2030. Sir Keir emphasized the importance of all European nations reviewing their defense expenditures. He believes it’s crucial for Europe to enhance its defense capacity and readiness.

When asked what a European security guarantee for Ukraine would entail, he noted that it’s important to identify those European countries willing to take a proactive stance. He mentioned that the UK and France are at the forefront of these discussions, encouraging a broad coalition to support Ukraine in its time of need.

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