Starmer to Discuss Ukraine’s Sovereignty with Trump Amid War Anniversary

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to emphasize Ukraine’s sovereignty in upcoming talks with former U.S. President Donald Trump. The commitment came during a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday, where Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s “ironclad support” for Kyiv.

The conversation marked the second call between the leaders in four days, following Trump’s recent move to reopen relations with Russia and push for an end to the Ukraine war.

Monday will mark three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion, an occasion UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy said would be met with further sanctions against Moscow.

Starmer Backs Ukraine, Plans Talks with Trump on Security and Peace

Thousands marched to the Russian embassy in London on Saturday in solidarity with Ukraine ahead of the war’s third anniversary.

During a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed Britain’s unwavering support, stating that “Ukraine must be at the heart of any negotiations to end the war.” Downing Street described the moment as crucial for Ukraine and European security, with Starmer emphasizing that safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty is key to deterring future Russian aggression.

Starmer confirmed he would continue these discussions in the coming weeks, including with Donald Trump during his visit to Washington next week. Zelensky called the conversation productive, noting ongoing coordination on military cooperation and strategic engagements.

In an article for The Sun, Starmer acknowledged Trump’s stance on European nations increasing defense spending and his push for a peace deal, stating, “Every time I have spoken with him, I am struck by his commitment to peace.” However, he insisted Ukraine must have a voice in any negotiations and that strong security guarantees—backed by the U.S.—are essential.

Starmer, EU Leaders Push for Stronger European Security Amid US-Russia Shifts

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed on Saturday that Europe must “step up for the good of collective European security,” according to Downing Street.

Meanwhile, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced plans for Britain’s largest sanctions package against Russia since the early days of the war, aiming to weaken President Vladimir Putin’s “military machine.” The UK remains committed to working with the US and Europe to secure a “sustainable, just peace,” he said.

Starmer’s upcoming meeting with Donald Trump in Washington on Thursday follows a week of intense diplomatic activity, with European leaders reacting to Trump’s sudden push to reestablish ties with Russia. Ahead of visits from Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump criticized both, claiming they “haven’t done anything” to end the war.

Trump also downplayed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s role in peace talks, stating that he had “no cards” and was “not very important to be in meetings.” UK Defence Secretary John Healey pushed back, writing in The Sunday Times, “Any negotiations about Ukraine cannot happen without Ukraine… An insecure peace risks more war.”

Tensions escalated further last week when Trump labeled Zelensky a “dictator” and falsely claimed he had started the war, despite Russia’s 2022 invasion. Zelensky dismissed the remarks, accusing Trump of being influenced by Russian disinformation.

London Protesters Rally Against US Stance on Ukraine Amid Peace Talks

Protesters marched through London on Saturday in response to shifting U.S. policy on Ukraine, moving from the Ukrainian embassy to the Russian embassy. The demonstration reflected growing concerns over potential concessions to Russia in ongoing peace discussions.

Among the protesters was 93-year-old Margaret Owen, who likened Donald Trump’s approach to the pre-World War II appeasement of Adolf Hitler. “It’s outrageous. We can’t let the world be dictated to by these two impossible people,” she said, referring to Trump and Vladimir Putin.

Labour MP Emily Thornberry, chair of the Commons foreign affairs committee, called for diplomacy over confrontation. “We want to influence the U.S. president, and we agree there must be peace. Why shout at him?” she said, arguing that Ukraine must be directly involved in negotiations.

Ukrainian student Oleksandra Udovenko, originally from Kyiv, emphasized the demonstration’s purpose: “I’m here to protect my country’s interests, independence, and right to be free from any empire in this world.”

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