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### Unlock Your Free Guide: What the 2024 US Elections Mean for Washington and the World
Britain and France are spearheading a critical European effort to salvage hopes for peace in Ukraine following a tense meeting last week between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced after a London summit that Europe would act as a mediator to encourage a ceasefire and persuade Trump to provide US military support for the initiative.
“Britain is ready to contribute troops and aircraft alongside other nations,” Starmer stated during a press conference attended by 19 international leaders. He emphasized that while Europe must take on the “heavy lifting,” the effort requires robust US backing. However, several countries, including Germany, Spain, and Poland, have yet to commit to sending troops as part of the UK and France-led coalition.
Starmer revealed that many nations expressed interest in joining the peace plan but declined to name them specifically. He urged broader participation to demonstrate Europe’s resolve and convince Trump of the initiative’s seriousness. “This is not a time for empty words,” he said. “It’s a moment for decisive action, increased commitment, and leadership.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored the EU’s determination, stating that Ukraine must be transformed into a “steel porcupine” to deter potential aggressors. Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are leading efforts to secure US security guarantees for any peace agreement, though progress remains elusive.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, known for her strong ties with Trump, is also seen as a key player in these negotiations. The three leaders plan to draft a peace proposal for Zelenskyy and present it to the White House, aiming to navigate the strained relationship between Trump and the Ukrainian president.
Starmer emphasized that while Europe would lead future security guarantees, the ultimate decision on a ceasefire would rest with Kyiv and Moscow. Trump, meanwhile, has suggested that increased US economic involvement in Ukraine—such as a proposed deal to share in the country’s mineral wealth—could deter further Russian aggression. However, Starmer’s allies insist that US military support remains essential.
The British Prime Minister expressed confidence in the US as a reliable ally, despite Trump’s reluctance to commit to European-led initiatives. “I wouldn’t pursue this path if I didn’t believe in a positive outcome, including US support,” Starmer said. He added that discussions are ongoing to explore how Trump could contribute to ensuring a lasting peace.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed that debates are underway regarding US involvement in Ukraine’s security guarantees. The London summit also saw the participation of outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.
The leaders unanimously agreed that while Europe must strengthen its defense capabilities, achieving peace in Ukraine ultimately requires US involvement. “Anyone who thinks Europe can do this alone is mistaken,” a Starmer ally remarked.
The summit, held at Lancaster House in central London, also served as an opportunity to show solidarity with Zelenskyy after he faced harsh criticism from Trump and US Vice President JD Vance earlier in the week. Zelenskyy met Starmer at Downing Street and later traveled to Sandringham House to meet King Charles.
In a separate announcement, Starmer revealed that Belfast would receive £1.6 billion in British export guarantees, highlighting the UK’s broader economic commitments.
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