Keir Starmer commended Volodymyr Zelensky’s endeavors to bring an end to the violent conflict with Russia and denounced Vladimir Putin’s ongoing missile and drone assaults on urban areas.
The Prime Minister held discussions with the Ukrainian President, alongside France’s Emmanuel Macron and Germany’s Friedrich Merz at No10. They jointly outlined a five-step roadmap to peace following Mr. Zelensky’s declaration that Ukraine would not passively succumb.
The meeting occurred as Vladimir Putin’s military continued to strike Ukraine after peace negotiations hit a deadlock. Putin rejected a request by Mr. Zelensky for direct talks, claiming a lack of purpose in such a meeting.
In a recent incident, a Russian drone attack caused damage to a storage facility for spent nuclear fuel near the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. Mr. Zelensky condemned it as a reprehensible Russian assault.
The leaders of Britain, France, and Germany detailed five key actions for peace, beginning with an immediate and total ceasefire. They emphasized the importance of diplomatic negotiations, respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty in security decisions, and ensuring robust security guarantees for Ukraine.
Furthermore, they called for the immobilization of Russian assets until Putin halts hostilities and compensates Ukraine for damages. Safeguarding European security interests in any potential agreement was also highlighted.
A collective statement expressed appreciation for Ukraine’s recent military achievements and condemned Russia’s extensive missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities. The statement endorsed President Zelenskyy’s plea for a peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels.
The European leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, with the UK and France leading a coalition willing to provide security assurances upon reaching a peace agreement.
Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, expressed deep concern over the drone strike near Chernobyl. Mr. Zelensky criticized Russia for targeting the nuclear facility, highlighting the need for substantial actions to convey the impact of Russia’s aggressive actions.
Mr. Zelensky is scheduled to meet with the King on Monday and expressed gratitude to Ukraine’s allies for their unwavering support. Following a significant drone attack by Ukraine on St Petersburg, he emphasized Ukraine’s increasing capability to strike deep inside Russia.
Flags of Britain, France, Germany, and Ukraine were displayed on Downing Street before the meeting, symbolizing unity.
In a separate incident, a Russian drone strike claimed three lives at a bus stop in southeastern Ukraine, while another person was injured in Balabyne. Additionally, a Ukrainian attack in Russia’s Kursk region resulted in one fatality and one injury, as reported by local Governor Alexander Khinshtein.