UK, France to collaborate with Kyiv on Ukraine peace plan, says British premier

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK and France will work with Ukraine to develop a peace plan, which will be presented to the US.

The agreement follows discussions between Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Speaking to BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Starmer expressed optimism, calling the agreement “a step in the right direction.”

He added that the plan, aimed at ending the conflict, would be presented to Washington.

Starmer also suggested that the US, alongside European nations, would play a pivotal role in ensuring Ukraine’s security.

He emphasized that key components of the proposed peace plan include a strong Ukraine with defensive capabilities to deter Russian aggression, a "US backstop," and security guarantees from European countries.

These elements, according to Starmer, are crucial for a "lasting peace" in Ukraine.

“The components of a lasting peace are clear: a strong Ukraine that can defend itself, European security guarantees, and a US backstop,” Starmer said.

“That’s the package. All three parts need to be in place, and that’s what I’m working hard to bring together.”

Addressing a tense exchange between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump at the White House, Starmer admitted he "feel uncomfortable" witnessing the argument.

Despite the heated moment, he stressed that the focus should remain on achieving lasting peace in Ukraine, which he believes is crucial for Europe’s broader security.

Following the exchange, Starmer revealed that he had spoken with both Trump and Zelenskyy to ease tensions and refocus efforts on supporting Ukraine.

While he refrained from sharing specific details of the conversations, Starmer reiterated that the priority must be ending the conflict and securing long-term peace in Ukraine.