“Putin Must Prove He Is Serious About Peace,” Says UK PM Starmer

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted a virtual summit with 26 world leaders, reaffirming the UK’s leadership in supporting Ukraine’s defense and security.

The meeting, which included leaders from the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and NATO, focused on practical steps to reinforce Ukraine’s resilience and establish a lasting peace agreement.

Starmer emphasized that the coalition of supporting nations is expanding, demonstrating a stronger collective commitment to Ukraine’s security. He confirmed that new commitments were made during the summit and announced that military planners would convene in the UK later this week to develop concrete strategies for Ukraine’s defense.

“We will accelerate our military support, tighten sanctions on Russia’s revenues, and explore all lawful means to ensure that Russia pays for the damage inflicted on Ukraine,” Starmer stated, reinforcing the UK’s proactive stance in the war.

The British Prime Minister stressed that US cooperation remains essential for any long-term security arrangement for Ukraine, confirming ongoing discussions with Washington. He highlighted the recent return of his national security adviser from the US as part of continuous high-level engagement between allies.

Starmer welcomed diplomatic efforts, including the US-backed ceasefire proposal discussed in Jeddah. He insisted that the responsibility now lies with Moscow to demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace. Russia’s continued military actions, he argued, contradict any claims of willingness to negotiate.

“Putin must prove he is serious about peace by committing to a ceasefire on equal terms,” Starmer said, adding that delays and aggression only undermine Russia’s credibility.

Looking ahead, Starmer is driving efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities. He confirmed that military planners would meet in the UK to finalize measures aimed at ensuring Ukraine can defend itself and deter future threats. The coalition is also preparing contingency plans, including a potential foreign contingents as part of peace and security guarantees, to safeguard Ukraine’s stability in the event of an agreement.

Starmer stressed the need for rigorous monitoring mechanisms to oversee any ceasefire agreement. He warned that if Russia refuses to engage constructively, the UK and its allies will intensify support for Ukraine, including additional military aid and economic pressure on Moscow.

“We agreed to increase our efforts to weaken Russia’s war machine and apply greater pressure on Putin to bring him to the negotiating table,” Starmer stated, underlining his government’s firm approach.