Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently engaged in discussions with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following a meeting that turned contentious in Washington. The meeting sparked a disagreement about US assistance for Ukraine, prompting Sir Keir to reaffirm his “unwavering support for Ukraine” in conversations with both leaders according to a statement from No 10. Zelensky was initially greeted in the White House by Trump, but tensions quickly escalated in the Oval Office with Trump urging Zelensky to show more gratitude for US aid and accusing him of risking “World War Three.”
As Zelensky prepares to visit the UK this Sunday, Sir Keir is set to host a summit of European leaders to address the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. A spokesperson from No 10 emphasized the Prime Minister’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, highlighting his efforts to pave the way for a lasting peace. The spokesperson noted the upcoming gathering of international leaders, including President Zelensky, as an opportunity to further these discussions.
During the heated exchange at the White House, tensions flared as both Trump and Zelensky repeatedly interrupted each other, disrupting what was anticipated to be a prelude to signing a minerals deal. US Vice President JD Vance, present in the room, also got involved in the exchange. The planned press conference was cancelled, and Zelensky departed the White House before the minerals agreement could be finalized. Prior to this clash, Sir Keir had engaged in talks with Trump, spawning discussions about a new US-UK trade deal and extending an invitation from King Charles III for a state visit.
Throughout the diplomatic turmoil, reactions across US politicians fell along party lines, with Republicans praising Trump’s stance while Democrats criticized him. In Ukraine, there was widespread applause for Zelensky’s firm stance in the face of what they view as an existential conflict. Observers in Kyiv condemned the perceived arrogance of Trump’s administration and praised Zelensky for standing up for his country. The altercation in the Oval Office prompted expressions of solidarity for Zelensky from key European allies, including France, amidst ongoing tensions in the region. Russia offered a contrasting view, commending Trump and Vance for their restraint during the encounter and suggesting that the situation could have escalated further
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