-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Ivan Khomenko")
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders on March 2 at the 'Securing Our Future' Summit in London.
Live Updates:
5:08 PM
European leaders working on a plan to present to the US
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posed for a group photo with fellow leaders, with national flags in the background.
During the summit, Starmer elaborated on an initiative to develop a joint strategy with Ukraine to help bring an end to the war.
“In recent discussions, we agreed that a group of us will collaborate with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting and then engage with the US to move it forward together,” Starmer stated.
He also underscored Russia’s ongoing hostilities, despite its rhetoric about peace:
“Even as Russia speaks of peace, they continue their relentless aggression. That is our agenda today—we must determine the steps needed to achieve peace through strength, ensuring security for all.”
Starmer also referenced a virtual conversation he had earlier in the day with Baltic leaders regarding the summit’s objectives.
4:46 PM
Starmer: 'Once in a generation moment' for Europe’s security
As the summit discussions commence, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the gathered leaders, emphasizing the historic significance of the meeting. He described it as a “once in a generation moment for the security of Europe” and highlighted that a strong and just peace in Ukraine is essential for stability across the continent.
Starmer also referenced the warm reception Zelenskyy received upon arriving at Downing Street earlier in the day, noting that it demonstrated the deep support for Ukraine among the British public.
4:40 PM
The high-level discussions at Lancaster House have now begun, with European leaders focusing on the future of security cooperation and potential pathways to ending the war in Ukraine. While the agenda remains flexible, key topics are expected to include Europe’s role in peace negotiations and transatlantic relations, particularly concerning U.S. support for Ukraine.
Following the discussions, Starmer is anticipated to hold a press conference outlining the summit’s key takeaways.
Additionally, outside the summit, President Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet King Charles later today.
4:07 PM
Final European leaders arrive as summit begins
Shortly before Zelenskyy’s arrival, European Council President Antonio Costa was escorted into the venue.
Minutes earlier, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived at Lancaster House following her earlier meeting with Starmer at Downing Street. During their conversation, she reiterated the urgency of Western unity, stating, “The West must not allow itself to be divided. That is of utmost importance.”
With Costa’s arrival, all expected European leaders are now present at the summit.
4:02 PM
Zelenskyy arrives at summit venue
Breaking: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has now arrived at Lancaster House, where he was welcomed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer ahead of high-level talks with European leaders.
3:50 PM
More leaders make their entrance
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof arrived at Lancaster House, followed closely by Finnish President Alexander Stubb, whose earlier remarks were highlighted in our previous update.
Shortly afterward, Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan also joined the summit discussions.
3:46 PM
Finnish President: Transatlantic alliance remains strong
Finnish President Alexander Stubb expressed support for Starmer’s efforts to draft a European-led peace plan, insisting that transatlantic cooperation remains intact despite recent tensions. He described the heated exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy as a “failure of diplomacy,” calling Russian President Vladimir Putin “the only winner.”
Encouraging a level-headed approach, Stubb remarked: “Take a deep breath. Take an ice bath, go to the sauna, reflect. We’ll be back.”
While declining to offer advice to Zelenskyy on handling relations with Washington, he humorously added: “I like British pies, but I won’t suggest Humble Pie to him. That’s for him to decide.”
Praising Starmer’s leadership, Stubb said: “This is the type of leadership Europe needs right now. The UK, France, and Ukraine, alongside a few others, should develop a solid plan. That’s why we are here.”
3:42 PM
Next arrivals: Trudeau, Frederiksen, and Scholz
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz have now joined the summit. Their discussions will focus on Europe’s continued military and financial assistance to Ukraine.
3:37 PM
Starmer greets European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala
Von der Leyen received a warm welcome from Starmer, while Fiala was greeted with a handshake. Both leaders are expected to play a key role in today’s discussions on European security and military commitments to Ukraine.
3:31 PM
European leaders arrive in quick succession
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Støre
Each leader was greeted individually by Starmer as they arrived at Lancaster House.
3:27 PM
European leaders seek to unlock a Ukraine peace plan
Diplomatic discussions are underway, with European leaders hoping to resolve transatlantic tensions and potentially present a new peace framework for Ukraine. Reports indicate that Starmer is pushing for Europe to take greater ownership of the process, calling for increased defense spending and exploring the potential for a European security presence in Ukraine.
3:18 PM
NATO chief Mark Rutte and Polish PM Donald Tusk arrive
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk have joined the summit, with Starmer greeting both leaders at the entrance of Lancaster House. Their arrival underscores the importance of NATO’s role in European security planning.
3:09 PM
Alastair Campbell: Starmer to play a key mediator role
Speaking to the BBC, political strategist Alastair Campbell highlighted Starmer’s role as a key broker in today’s talks. He described the UK prime minister as “serious and capable,” emphasizing the importance of a measured, diplomatic approach.
2:56 PM
Starmer greets French President Emmanuel Macron
Macron arrived at Lancaster House and was greeted by Starmer before heading inside. The French president is expected to play a major role in discussions surrounding European security and defense commitments.
2:51 PM
Keir Starmer arrives at the summit
The British prime minister has reached Lancaster House, where he was seen greeting officials before heading inside. Additional world leaders are expected shortly.
2:10 PM
Lithuanian President Nausėda discusses security with Starmer
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda met with Starmer and other Baltic leaders, emphasizing the necessity of strengthening transatlantic partnerships and securing NATO’s eastern flank. He also pointed out that European-led security measures should be considered for Ukraine’s future stability.
2:00 PM
Giorgia Meloni meets Keir Starmer
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived at Downing Street before the summit to hold talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. She stressed the importance of maintaining unity among Western allies, warning that divisions must be avoided.
“That’s why I believe the UK and Italy have a key role in bridging gaps,” Meloni stated.
