Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed he held a substantial conversation with new UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, focusing on the intricate details of diplomatic efforts to secure peace with Russia.
Coordinated Diplomatic Push
In a post on X, President Zelensky stated their discussion covered many nuances of diplomatic work in planning the peace process. He expressed gratitude for British society's ongoing support and confirmed that coordination between their governments would continue.
The Ukrainian leader announced that representatives from Ukraine, the United States, and the E3 format nations - the UK, France, and Germany - would begin working together in Switzerland the following day. Zelensky emphasised that the vast majority of European leaders stand ready to assist in these crucial efforts.
Starmer's Stance on US Peace Plan
Meanwhile, speaking from the G20 summit in Johannesburg, Sir Keir Starmer confirmed he would discuss Donald Trump's controversial peace plan with the US president in the coming days. The Prime Minister also anticipated speaking with President Zelensky later that Saturday.
Sir Keir joined other international leaders in expressing concerns about the US-drafted 28-point plan, particularly provisions that would require Kyiv to limit its armed forces, surrender territory, and abandon its NATO membership aspirations.
The Labour leader told reporters: "We are concerned about caps on military because it's fundamental that Ukraine has to be able to defend itself if there's a ceasefire."
Geneva Talks and Security Guarantees
Despite reservations, Starmer identified a positive element in the inclusion of an Article Five security guarantee, similar to NATO's mutual defence provision. He described this as "the strongest guarantee that can be put forward" and said it fortified his belief that Washington seeks a just and lasting peace.
UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell reportedly left the G20 summit early to attend the critical meeting in Geneva, where US, Ukrainian and European security advisers will scrutinise the proposed framework in detail.
While President Trump initially demanded a response from Ukraine by Thursday, he has since indicated potential flexibility. Sir Keir responded that while the process should move quickly, achieving a genuine and lasting peace remains the paramount objective.
The secret US-Russia negotiations, conducted by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Kremlin representative Kirill Dmitriev, have drawn criticism for excluding Kyiv and European allies from initial discussions.
