Sir Keir Starmer described the outcome of a Kyiv meeting among Ukraine’s allies as a “significant moment” in the pursuit of a ceasefire with Russia, while acknowledging it’s not the “end of the process.”
Speaking to the BBC from Kyiv after a virtual summit 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, starting Monday, threatening “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 Prime Minister Trudeau, European Commission President von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg, joined remotely.
Following the meeting, a phone call with President Biden reportedly confirmed US support for the ceasefire, despite Putin’s rejection of an earlier proposal.
Sir Keir stated that Biden 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 reported “material progress,” stating, “We’ve achieved a far more unified position, improving the prospects of a ceasefire.” He emphasized the unity in both the demand and the response to non-compliance, unprecedented in this conflict.
While acknowledging this is not the end, he called it a “significant moment,” urging continued pressure.
The Prime Minister highlighted the potential impact of further coordinated sanctions on Russian oil, fossil fuels, and other assets.
The Kremlin responded by accusing European leaders of making “contradictory” and “confrontational” statements, with press secretary Peskov stating that weapon shipments to Ukraine must cease before a ceasefire can be considered. Later, Russia indicated it would consider the proposal.
Russian state media quoted Peskov as saying, “We have to think about this. This is a new development.”
The Kyiv meeting served as a symbolic show of support, contrasting with the previous day’s Victory Day parade in Moscow, attended by over 20 world leaders, including Xi Jinping, Lula da Silva, and Robert Fico.
Sir Keir described the Kyiv meeting as a significant counterpoint 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 challenging international landscape but focused on his role in fostering collaboration and preparing for future contingencies.
The “coalition of the willing,” initiated by the UK and France, aims to bolster any peace agreement with security guarantees, including peacekeeping troops.
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