Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to take peace negotiations in Ukraine seriously, urging Western nations to intensify economic pressure if necessary to force Moscow to the table.
Accusing Putin of “playing games” with the prospect of peace, Starmer is set to host a virtual summit on Saturday, bringing together around 25 countries—including the UK, France, Australia, and Canada—to discuss measures aimed at preventing future Russian aggression.
The meeting takes place against the backdrop of ongoing resistance from Moscow to a ceasefire in the three-year war. However, a note of cautious optimism emerged from Washington, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that he sees potential for a cessation in hostilities.
During the summit, Starmer will push for “concrete commitments” from Western allies, including increased military support for Ukraine and stronger economic sanctions on Russia. He emphasized that any peace agreement must be closely monitored to ensure its credibility.
“If Russia finally comes to the table, then we must be ready to monitor a ceasefire to ensure it is a serious and enduring peace,” Starmer said. “If they don’t, then we need to strain every sinew to ramp up economic pressure on Russia to secure an end to this war.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also criticized Putin, accusing him of manipulating negotiations and avoiding direct engagement with former U.S. President Donald Trump on the matter. Zelensky claimed that Putin was “too afraid” to admit his true intentions regarding the continuation of the war.
Meanwhile, UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell is set to meet with his U.S. counterpart, Mike Waltz, in Washington this weekend. Discussions will include the Anglo-French proposal for a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine should an agreement be reached.
On Friday, Western allies reiterated their demand for an unconditional ceasefire. Trump also stated that the U.S. had engaged in “very good and productive” discussions with Putin and expressed optimism that an end to the war was within reach.
Putin has acknowledged the ceasefire proposal, calling it a “correct idea” but insisting on further conditions before agreeing to any settlement.
As diplomatic efforts continue, speculation has arisen that a potential peace deal could involve Russia taking control of the Donbas region. Waltz has suggested that such a concession may be necessary to achieve a resolution.
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