As Europe attempts to fill the leadership void in Ukraine, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is leading a new “coalition of the willing” that could put British troops in harm’s way. The socialist leader is working on a peace plan that may require European nations to shoulder more burden while seeking President Trump’s blessing.
At a Glance
- UK Prime Minister Starmer has proposed a peace framework for Ukraine that includes a potential 30-day ceasefire
- The plan envisions European nations taking the lead with strong US backing from the Trump administration
- Starmer admitted UK troops may be needed to enforce any peace agreement
- Sen. Lindsey Graham has called for Zelenskyy’s resignation following tense meetings with President Trump
- UK will increase support for Ukraine including a £2.26 billion loan from frozen Russian assets
Europe Stepping Up As American Support Wavers
Following a contentious meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Donald Trump, European leaders are scrambling to fill the potential aid gap. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened an emergency summit in London with leaders from over a dozen European nations to discuss Ukraine’s future as American support appears increasingly uncertain.
The socialist UK leader outlined four key priorities that emphasize European nations taking more responsibility while still relying on American backing. The plan comes as Zelenskyy faces growing criticism from key Republican leaders, with some even calling for his resignation after his difficult discussions with the Trump administration.
Starmer’s Four-Point Plan Depends on Trump’s Support
Starmer’s framework aims to strengthen Ukraine’s negotiation position against Russia, ensure its sovereignty, enhance its defensive capabilities, and form what he calls a “coalition of the willing” for long-term peace enforcement. The UK leader made it clear that Europe must take greater responsibility while simultaneously seeking American approval.
“Through my discussions over recent days, we’ve agreed that the U.K., France and others will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting,” Starmer said at a press conference Sunday. “Then we’ll discuss that plan with the United States. And take it forward together.”
French President Emmanuel Macron joined Starmer in proposing a 30-day freeze on military operations to facilitate peace talks. The plan includes increasing European financial commitments, with the UK offering a £2.26 billion loan from frozen Russian assets and access to £1.6 billion in export finance for Ukraine’s defense purchases.
Republicans Questioning Zelenskyy’s Leadership
As European leaders attempt to salvage support for Ukraine, Republican leaders in Washington are expressing increasing frustration with Zelenskyy personally. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that any security commitments would depend on achieving peace first, not the other way around.
Senator Lindsey Graham went further, directly calling for the Ukrainian President to step down following his meeting with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Graham’s comments signal growing Republican dissatisfaction with how Zelenskyy has approached negotiations with the new administration.
British Troops Could Be Deployed Under Plan
In a worrying development for those concerned about wider European involvement, Starmer acknowledged that UK soldiers and aircraft may be deployed as part of the commitment to Ukraine’s defense. The socialist leader warned that failure to defend Ukraine could lead to broader conflict spreading to Europe and potentially Britain itself.
“Not every nation will feel able to contribute, but that can’t mean that we sit back,” Starmer said. “Instead, those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency.”
As President Trump weighs his options on Ukraine funding, European nations appear to be preparing for a future where they carry more of the financial and military burden. Whether this “coalition of the willing” can succeed without strong American backing remains to be seen.
