The recent talks between Ukraine’s allies in Kyiv have been described by Sir Keir Starmer as a “significant moment” in the ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in the conflict with Russia. However, he acknowledged that it is not the end of the process. Following a virtual meeting of the “coalition of the willing”, the UK prime minister expressed satisfaction with the level of unity displayed during the discussions, stating that such unity has been lacking throughout the conflict.
Approximately 30 global leaders gathered to reiterate their demand for Russia to agree to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire starting Monday, warning of “massive” sanctions if Russia does not comply. The meeting, hosted by Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Zelensky, saw the participation of leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Other members joined remotely, including Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Canadian PM Mark Carney, and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
In a phone call with Donald Trump post-meeting, the US president reaffirmed his support for the ceasefire after his initial proposal was rejected by Vladimir Putin in March. The assembled leaders in Kyiv issued a warning to Putin, declaring that “new and massive” sanctions would be imposed on Russia’s energy and banking sectors if the 30-day ceasefire is not agreed upon. Sir Keir Starmer noted that progress had been made during the meeting towards a more unified stance that increases the chances of a ceasefire.
The Kremlin responded to the proposal by accusing European leaders of making “contradictory” and “generally confrontational” remarks towards Russia. Press secretary Dmitry Peskov claimed that Ukraine’s allies must cease sending weapons to Ukraine before a ceasefire can be achieved – a condition rejected by European leaders. Despite initial resistance, Russia expressed willingness to consider the proposal, indicating a potential shift in stance. The meeting in Kyiv served as a symbolic display of support for Ukraine following Russia’s World War Two Victory Day parade in Moscow, where more than 20 world leaders were in attendance
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