Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed a major diplomatic advance. He praised Donald Trump’s commitment to Ukraine security guarantees. This happened during a critical White House summit. Consequently, Starmer believes movement towards peace talks has begun. However, deep anxiety about the future clearly remains.
Starmer joined world leaders in Washington on Monday. He cut short a family holiday to attend. Afterwards, he called the summit a clear success. He said it showed tangible progress for everyone. Specifically, he highlighted new reassurances for European allies.
Furthermore, a Downing Street spokesperson outlined next steps. The coalition will meet again very soon. They will prepare to deploy a “reassurance force”. This force would activate only if hostilities finally end. Additionally, leaders discussed increasing pressure on Russia. They talked about imposing even more sanctions.
Separately, President Trump made some statements. He confirmed Ukraine would not join NATO immediately. However, he suggested European troops might deploy. He said nations like France and Germany would send boots. He also included the UK in this potential plan. Starmer has long supported gratitude diplomacy. Therefore, he was unlikely to criticize the outcomes.
The UK government now focuses on strengthening Ukraine’s position. Officials found the meeting helpful for two main reasons. Firstly, Trump did not publicly demand Ukrainian territory. Secondly, US security promises allow Zelensky more negotiating flexibility.
The prospect of a ceasefire now seems unlikely. Trump wants to move directly to final peace terms. Other leaders, like from France and Germany, mentioned a ceasefire. The UK decided not to press this issue alone. They avoided becoming a lone point of tension.
Starmer has now returned to the UK. Meanwhile, top military officials are traveling to Washington. They will discuss the details of American involvement. Everyone agrees any deal needs a strong US backstop. Trump’s commitment is seen as vital progress.
The largest unknown is Vladimir Putin’s next move. He could still retreat from this peace pathway. Everyone hopes the US will side with Europe if that happens. The promise of Ukraine security guarantees offers hope. But the road ahead remains fraught with danger and uncertainty.
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