Sir Keir Starmer described the outcome of Kyiv talks among Ukraine’s allies as a “significant moment” in the quest for a ceasefire with Russia, acknowledging it’s not the “end of the process”.
Speaking to the BBC in Kyiv after a virtual meeting of the “coalition of the willing,” the UK Prime Minister highlighted the unprecedented unity displayed throughout the conflict.
Approximately 30 global leaders reiterated their demand for Russia’s unconditional 30-day ceasefire, commencing Monday, warning of “massive” sanctions for non-compliance.
Citing global instability, including India-Pakistan tensions, Sir Keir emphasized the need for strong leadership in an increasingly uncertain world.
The meeting, hosted by Ukrainian President Zelensky, included French President Macron, German Chancellor Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Tusk. Other participants, including Italy’s Prime Minister Meloni, Canadian PM Carney, European Commission President von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Rutte, joined remotely.
Following the meeting, a phone call with President Trump reportedly reaffirmed US support for the ceasefire, despite Putin’s earlier rejection of a similar proposal.
Sir Keir stated that Trump was “absolutely clear” about the necessity of meeting this demand.
Leaders in Kyiv warned of “new and massive” sanctions targeting Russia’s energy and banking sectors if Putin fails to agree to the unconditional 30-day ceasefire across all domains.
Sir Keir noted “material progress,” stating the meeting achieved “a much better and more unified position” enhancing ceasefire prospects. He highlighted the unprecedented unity in both the demand and the planned response to non-compliance.
While acknowledging this is not the final step, he stressed the significance of this moment and the need for continued pressure.
Further coordinated sanctions on Russian oil, fossil fuels, and other assets, the Prime Minister asserted, would make a “material difference”.
The Kremlin responded by accusing European leaders of making “contradictory” and “confrontational” statements. Press Secretary Peskov stated that weapon shipments to Ukraine must cease before a ceasefire can be considered—a position rejected by European leaders—before later indicating Russia would consider the proposal.
State-run Russian news agency Tass reported Peskov saying, “We have to think about this. This is a new development.”
The Kyiv meeting served as a symbolic show of support, following a day where over 20 world leaders attended Putin’s Moscow Victory Day parade.
The Moscow parade, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany, was attended by leaders including China’s Xi Jinping, Brazil’s Lula da Silva, and Slovakia’s Prime Minister Fico.
Sir Keir described the Kyiv meeting as a crucial counterpoint to Moscow’s propaganda exercise, emphasizing the enduring relevance of the values fought for 80 years ago on VE Day.
Addressing concerns about global instability, Sir Keir acknowledged the uncertain world but focused on his role in bringing people together and preparing for future challenges.
The so-called “coalition of the willing”, initiated by the UK and France, aims to bolster any peace deal with security guarantees, including peacekeeping troops.
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