Prime Minister calls for stronger European involvement while preparing to meet Donald Trump to discuss Ukraine’s future

In a significant statement following a high-level emergency summit in Paris, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasised that a “US security guarantee” is the only viable solution to secure lasting peace in Ukraine. Starmer, speaking with European leaders including France’s President Emmanuel Macron, argued that the security of Ukraine is not just crucial for its sovereignty but for the entire continent’s stability.

Describing the current geopolitical landscape as a “new era,” Starmer stressed that countries can no longer rely on past comforts and must face the shifting dynamics of global security. “It is an existential question for Europe as a whole,” Starmer declared, underlining that Britain’s national interests are deeply tied to Ukraine’s future. He also indicated that Britain may be prepared to commit troops to a peacekeeping effort if a lasting agreement is reached.

The call for stronger European involvement came as US President Donald Trump surprised many by arranging bilateral peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, excluding Europe and Ukraine. The talks, set to take place in Saudi Arabia, have raised concerns among European leaders about the US’s diminishing role in the continent’s security. Starmer, however, reassured that the US would remain committed to NATO, but warned that Europe must shoulder more of the security burden moving forward.

In an interview ahead of his planned meeting with President Trump in Washington next week, Starmer reiterated that Europe must do more, including increasing defence spending and enhancing military capabilities. He also mentioned that discussions with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy were ongoing, as he seeks a united European front on the matter.

Despite three hours of talks in Paris, European leaders did not reach a consensus on deploying peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed reluctance, with Scholz calling the conversation on peacekeepers “completely premature.”

Starmer’s remarks underscore the growing rift in Europe over how to handle the conflict and the shifting power dynamics in global peace efforts. As the situation evolves, Europe faces the critical challenge of balancing its own security interests with those of Ukraine in the face of an unpredictable US stance.

THE GUARDIAN

Keir Starmer has not dismissed the possibility of a parliamentary vote on deploying UK troops for peacekeeping duties in Ukraine if a ceasefire is agreed. Following pressure from some Labour members and the Liberal Democrats, Downing Street indicated that a US-backed security guarantee would be essential before sending British ground forces. While Starmer’s stance on military action requiring parliamentary consent remains unchanged, the decision to commit troops hinges on international agreements and the UK’s security role in post-conflict Ukraine.

BBC

Keir Starmer has emphasized that any peace deal with Russia over Ukraine must include a “US backstop” to deter future Russian aggression. Speaking after a summit with European leaders, Starmer reiterated the potential deployment of UK troops in a peacekeeping role, contingent on a ceasefire and a US security guarantee. However, European leaders like Germany’s Chancellor Scholz expressed concerns, calling troop discussions premature. Military experts warn that a significant peacekeeping force would require substantial defence spending and readiness. Starmer’s commitment to increasing UK defence spending aligns with broader European calls to enhance military capabilities.