Ukraine’s Zelensky Receives Support from UK’s Starmer in London
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warmly welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in London, reaffirming support for Ukraine amidst growing tensions with Russia. Following a contentious meeting with US President Trump, Zelensky emphasized the critical need for continued assistance from the US and discussed a substantial loan agreement for Ukraine’s defense. European leaders are collaborating to enhance security measures and address shifts in US policy toward the conflict.
On March 1, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended a warm welcome to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in London. This meeting occurred shortly after a tense encounter between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. Ahead of a significant summit scheduled for the following day, which aims to bolster support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia, Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Ukraine’s security. He emphasized the necessity of collaborating with allies to strengthen European security guarantees while continuing dialogue with the United States.
Starmer announced a substantial financial package to enhance Ukraine’s defense, revealing a £2.26 billion loan agreement intended to be repaid through the yields of frozen Russian assets. “The funds will be directed toward weapons production in Ukraine,” Zelensky stated on X, advocating that accountability for the war should rest with its initiator. During his London visit, Zelensky received warm accolades, being greeted by supporters as he arrived at Downing Street where he was photographed with Starmer.
In a private meeting with Starmer, which lasted approximately 75 minutes, the two leaders expressed mutual gratitude for the ongoing support from the UK populace since the beginning of the war. Zelensky also indicated the importance of maintaining Trump’s support for Ukraine despite a recent confrontation in the Oval Office where Trump questioned Zelensky’s readiness for peace negotiations. “It is crucial for us to have President Trump’s support. He wants to end the war, but no one wants peace more than we do,” Zelensky remarked.
Parallel to the political developments, European leaders expressed concern regarding Trump’s recent stance toward Ukraine, highlighting a shift that could undermine support for Kyiv. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock remarked that “a new age of infamy has begun” following the altercation, while figures from NATO and other European nations reaffirmed their allegiance to Ukraine. In contrast, Russian officials celebrated the discord between Zelensky and Trump, indicating the geopolitical complexities surrounding the conflict.
Looking ahead to the upcoming emergency summit in London, European leaders aim to discuss not only support for Ukraine but also the need for greater European defense independence in the face of shifting US policies. French President Emmanuel Macron hinted at potential deliberations on establishing a European nuclear deterrent, asserting the necessity for Europe to secure its defense strategies autonomously from the United States. The situation underscores the need for cohesive European effort in response to security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The meeting between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Volodymyr Zelensky highlights a renewed commitment to supporting Ukraine amid escalating tensions with Russia. As political dynamics shift, particularly with the United States, the emphasis on European security and defense autonomy becomes increasingly critical. The outcomes of the upcoming summit will be vital in determining the collective approach to ensuring Ukraine’s stability and addressing broader geopolitical challenges.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
