Sir Keir Starmer described the outcome of recent talks in Kyiv as a “significant moment” in the quest for a ceasefire in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, while acknowledging it’s not the end of the process. Speaking to the BBC in Kyiv following 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 to agree to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire starting Monday, threatening substantial sanctions for non-compliance. Sir Keir noted the current global uncertainty, emphasizing the need for strong leadership in navigating such times.
The meeting, hosted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, included leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. Other members, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, participated remotely.
Following the meeting, reports indicate that President Biden reaffirmed his support for the ceasefire after President Putin’s earlier rejection of a similar proposal. Sir Keir stated that President Biden was resolute in demanding the ceasefire.
Leaders in Kyiv warned of “new and massive” sanctions targeting Russia’s energy and banking sectors if Putin fails to agree to the unconditional ceasefire. Sir Keir emphasized the meeting’s “material progress,” highlighting the achieved unity in both the demand for a ceasefire and the response to potential non-compliance – a level of unity unseen before in this conflict.
He clarified that while this is a significant step, it’s not conclusive. Further coordinated sanctions on Russian energy and other assets were deemed crucial. The Kremlin responded by criticizing the European leaders’ statements as contradictory and confrontational, with press secretary Dmitry Peskov initially stating that weapons shipments to Ukraine must cease before any ceasefire can be considered. Later, reports via Tass indicated Russia would consider the proposal.
The Kyiv meeting served as a symbolic counterpoint to the previous day’s large military parade in Moscow for Victory Day, attended by leaders including China’s Xi Jinping and Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Sir Keir described the Kyiv gathering as an important symbolic response to the Moscow parade, 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 times but stressed his focus on collaborative efforts, progress made in the talks, and preparing for future contingencies. The “coalition of the willing,” established by the UK and France, aims to bolster any eventual peace agreement with security guarantees and peacekeeping forces.
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