The role of the US in any future deal is likely to be among the topics up for discussion later this week when Sir Keir Starmer heads to Washington.
President Donald Trump has proposed that Europe should take responsibility for ensuring peace and security in Ukraine, particularly in the context of potential peacekeeping missions. This suggestion came during his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, marking the third anniversary of Russia's invasion. Trump indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin would likely accept such a plan. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been advised to adopt a firm stance, akin to Macron's, when engaging with Trump, especially regarding issues like Ukraine's defense and security. The UK has expressed willingness to deploy troops as part of security guarantees, though Russia opposes the involvement of NATO or European forces. Trump has also emphasized the need for increased European defense spending. Meanwhile, the UN recently supported a resolution condemning Russian aggression, while the US abstained. An NGO representing Ukrainian communities stressed the importance of not pressuring Ukraine to compromise and highlighted the need for unity in supporting Ukraine's sovereignty.
