In a significant diplomatic move, Britain and France are working alongside Ukraine to craft a peace deal aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday. The proposed agreement is expected to be presented to US President Donald Trump, marking what Starmer called a “step in the right direction” following a dramatic diplomatic confrontation between Kyiv and Washington that left the world stunned.

European Leaders Seek a Unified Approach

Ahead of a high-profile summit in London, where over a dozen European leaders will discuss a way forward in the three-year-old conflict, Starmer urged global leaders to “work together.” He emphasized that no one wants to see a repeat of the heated clash between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump at the White House.

The British Prime Minister expressed hope for a "coalition of the willing" in Europe, ready to support Kyiv, but stressed that any ceasefire must be backed by the United States to prevent Russian President Vladimir Putin from launching another invasion.

"We’ve got to find those countries in Europe that are prepared to be a bit more forward-leaning," Starmer told the BBC.

"The United Kingdom, along with France and possibly one or two others, will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, and then we’ll discuss that plan with the United States," he added.

The London summit will bring together leaders from across Europe, including France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Turkey, NATO, and the European Union. With growing concerns over whether the United States will continue to support NATO, discussions will also focus on strengthening Europe’s defense cooperation.

Canada Joins the Peace Effort

Adding to the diplomatic push, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau arrived in London on Sunday to attend the European leaders' meeting. Trudeau expressed Canada’s support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, reaffirming Kyiv’s sovereignty and security.

"I’m in London this morning, working with President Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Starmer, and European leaders to bring about a just and lasting peace in Ukraine — one that guarantees Ukraine’s sovereignty and security," Trudeau posted on X (formerly Twitter).

UK and Ukraine Seal €3 Billion Loan Deal

As part of its continued commitment to Ukraine, the United Kingdom has signed a €3 billion ($3.1 billion) loan agreement to boost Kyiv’s defense capabilities.

During Zelenskyy's visit to Downing Street, Starmer welcomed him with warm handshakes and hugs, underscoring the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine. The Ukrainian leader arrived in London following a tense meeting in Washington, where Trump publicly berated him.

Apart from attending the security summit, Zelenskyy is also scheduled to meet King Charles III during his stay in Britain.

Starmer Reaffirms UK’s Full Support for Ukraine

During the high-level meeting, Starmer assured Zelenskyy that Britain stands firmly with Ukraine. Given the uncertainty over US support, Starmer’s words were seen as a strong reassurance.

"You have full backing across the United Kingdom, and we have full backing for Ukraine for as long as it takes," Starmer stated.

The two leaders discussed Ukraine’s defense strategies and efforts to achieve a "just and lasting peace" that would prevent Russia from using a ceasefire as an opportunity to regroup and attack again.

What Happened at the Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting?

The recent diplomatic firestorm was ignited during Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday. In a tense Oval Office exchange, Trump scolded Zelenskyy, warning him that he was “gambling with World War Three”.

Trump claimed that a truce with Russia was close and suggested that a deal allowing US access to Ukraine’s natural resources would be “very fair.”

"We’re going to feel very good and very strong," Trump told Zelenskyy.

When pressed about whether he was favoring Putin, Trump dismissed concerns, insisting he was only aligned with American interests.

"If I didn’t align myself with both of them, you’d never have a deal," he explained. "You want me to say really terrible things about Putin and then say, ‘Hi, Vladimir, how are we doing on the deal?’ That doesn’t work that way."

Following the heated exchange, Trump abruptly canceled a joint press conference with Zelenskyy. A planned White House lunch was also scrapped, escalating tensions further.

Zelenskyy Asked to Leave White House After Meeting Collapse

The fallout from the disastrous meeting reached a peak when Zelenskyy and his team were asked to leave the White House. Reports indicate that the situation deteriorated after JD Vance, a key Trump ally, accused the Ukrainian leader of “disrespecting” the United States.

Conclusion: What’s Next?

With tensions running high between Ukraine and the US, Britain and France have stepped up efforts to secure peace and maintain support for Kyiv. The London summit will play a crucial role in determining the next steps for European nations in the absence of clear US leadership.

As global leaders weigh their options, one thing remains clear: Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty is far from over, and international support will be key in shaping the war’s outcome.