UK PM Starmer unveils four-step plan for Ukraine at defence summit

UK’s proactive leadership in European security signals a shift toward greater European responsibility in managing the Ukraine crisis, while still ensuring strong US backing

PGurus Newsdesk

March 3, 2025

UK’s proactive leadership in European security signals a shift toward greater European responsibility in managing the Ukraine crisis, while still ensuring strong US backing

European nations must “act now,” says UK PM

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday declared that Europe stands at a “crossroads in history” and must recognize that “it is time to act.” His remarks came after a defence summit on Ukraine held at Lancaster House in London.

During the summit, Starmer outlined a four-step plan to ensure Ukraine’s security and announced a £1.6 billion finance deal to help Ukraine acquire over 5,000 missiles.

“Every nation must contribute,” Starmer emphasized, adding that several “important steps” were agreed upon during the discussions.

Keir Starmer’s four-step plan for Ukraine

Continued military and economic pressure on Russia

The UK and its allies will maintain military aid to Ukraine.
Additional economic sanctions will be imposed to weaken Russia’s war effort.

Ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty in any peace deal

Any future peace agreement must include security guarantees for Ukraine.
Ukraine must be actively involved in negotiations.

Bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities

Ukraine must have the ability to deter any future invasions.
Allies will continue to supply advanced weaponry and defence systems.

Creating a ‘coalition of the willing’ for long-term security

A group of nations will commit to defending and guaranteeing peace in Ukraine.
The UK is prepared to deploy soldiers and aircraft, along with other willing nations.

“Not every nation will feel able to contribute, but that can’t mean we sit back. Those willing must intensify planning with urgency. The UK is ready to support this effort with boots on the ground and planes in the air,” Starmer added.

Key leaders at the London summit

The high-profile summit brought together 19 world leaders, including:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky – who later met King Charles III at Sandringham.
French President Emmanuel Macron – who, along with Zelensky, had met US President Donald Trump earlier in the week.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

Starmer confirmed that leaders had agreed to “meet again very soon” to refine their strategy.

Reaffirming US support amid tensions

The summit followed a global show of support for Zelensky, who had a tense Oval Office exchange with Trump on Friday.

Despite speculation over America’s continued commitment to Ukraine, Starmer rejected claims that the US is an “unreliable ally.”

“This is not a moment for more talk. It’s time to act. Time to step up, lead, and unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace,” he declared.

The UK’s proactive leadership in European security signals a shift toward greater European responsibility in managing the Ukraine crisis, while still ensuring strong US backing.

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