A pivotal summit is convening in London this Sunday, aiming to address the ongoing war in Ukraine. The gathering responds to Washington's evolving strategy for concluding the conflict initiated by Russia's full-scale invasion over three years ago. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during a meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, commended the United Kingdom for its "tremendous" support. The UK has offered a significant £2.26 billion loan to Ukraine, funded by Russian assets frozen since the onset of the war.
The summit arrives as Ukraine grapples with recent escalations, including an overnight drone attack on Kharkiv that injured seven people. Ukraine's state emergency service reported the evacuation of 64 individuals from a medical facility ignited by the drone strike. Against this backdrop, Sir Keir Starmer strives to serve as an intermediary for Ukraine in its quest for US security assurances in any prospective peace agreement.
Zelensky's visit included delivering a letter from King Charles inviting former US President Donald Trump for a second state visit. Trump, however, is reportedly contemplating halting aid to Ukraine altogether, a move that could significantly alter the dynamics of international support for the embattled nation. Zelensky emphasized the importance of Trump's backing, underscoring the urgent need for peace.
"It's crucial for us to have President Trump's support. He wants to end the war, but no-one wants peace more than we do." – Volodymyr Zelensky
At the summit, increasing Europe's defense capabilities will be a primary focus as Washington begins to reduce its involvement. A special European Commission defense package is anticipated to be unveiled on March 6. Starmer suggested deploying British troops to Ukraine as part of a European peacekeeping force—a proposal raising questions about the UK's current military readiness.
"We are the ones living this war in Ukraine. It's a fight for our freedom, for our very survival." – Volodymyr Zelensky
Despite these challenges, Zelensky expressed gratitude for the UK's steadfast support from the war's inception. He acknowledged the solidarity shown by British citizens and emphasized the necessity for continued direct dialogue between strategic partners.
"Despite the tough dialogue, we remain strategic partners. But we need to be honest and direct with each other to truly understand our shared goals." – Volodymyr Zelensky
Sir Keir Starmer highlighted that the UK's financial aid will be instrumental in bolstering Ukraine's defense industry by facilitating local weapons production. However, experts caution that the UK's military forces may not be prepared to assume an expanded defense role at this time.
The summit will also explore how Europe can strengthen its defense posture in response to the shifting geopolitical landscape. As Washington steps back, European leaders are tasked with ensuring regional stability and support for Ukraine.
"That is the people of the United Kingdom coming out to demonstrate how much they support you, how much they support Ukraine." – Sir Keir Starmer
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