Starmer Leads ‘Coalition of the Willing,’ Urges Putin to Commit to Truce/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on Vladimir Putin to prove he is serious about peace by signing a ceasefire agreement in Ukraine. Speaking after a virtual meeting with 30 global leaders, Starmer criticized Russia’s delays in responding to Trump’s proposed 30-day truce and reaffirmed his coalition’s commitment to Ukraine’s security. The U.S. was notably absent from the talks, while Putin has yet to fully agree to the ceasefire terms.
Ukraine Ceasefire Push Quick Looks:
- Starmer’s Message to Putin: The UK prime minister urged Putin to immediately accept a ceasefire if he truly seeks peace.
- Coalition of the Willing: 30 world leaders, including Macron and Zelenskyy, joined the virtual meeting.
- U.S. Stance: The United States was not represented, but Trump has suggested Russia may back a deal.
- Military Planning: Starmer pledged continued defense support for Ukraine, including future deployments if a peace deal is struck.
- Putin’s Delay Tactics: Russia claims it needs further clarifications, while gaining ground on the battlefield.
Starmer Leads ‘Coalition of the Willing,’ Urges Putin to Commit to Truce
Deep Look:
Starmer Calls on Putin to Accept Ceasefire
With the war in Ukraine entering its third year, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer took a firm stance on Saturday, urging Vladimir Putin to sign a ceasefire agreement immediately.
“If Putin is serious about peace, he must act now,” Starmer declared after hosting a virtual summit of 30 world leaders, dubbed the “Coalition of the Willing.”
The meeting, which included French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, focused on pressuring Russia to accept a 30-day ceasefire—a proposal originally put forward by U.S. President Donald Trump.
However, Russia has stalled on finalizing the agreement, citing a need for further negotiations.
Ukraine Supports Ceasefire, But Putin Hesitates
Ukraine has already agreed to the proposed 30-day truce, signaling a willingness to pause hostilities despite facing intense battlefield pressure from Russian advances.
However, Putin has not fully committed, saying the ceasefire proposal needs “further clarifications.” Many analysts believe Russia’s recent military gains make Putin hesitant to freeze the conflict while holding an upper hand.
Global Support for Ukraine’s Security
During the summit, Starmer and European leaders reaffirmed their long-term commitment to Ukraine, emphasizing that any future peace deal must include security guarantees for Kyiv.
“We will build up Ukraine’s own defenses and be ready to deploy as a Coalition of the Willing to help secure Ukraine on land, at sea, and in the sky,” Starmer stated.
Military officials are set to meet in the UK next week to draft concrete plans for Ukraine’s security post-ceasefire.
Trump’s Shifting Stance on Russia-Ukraine War
The U.S. did not participate in the meeting, reflecting Trump’s evolving approach to Ukraine since returning to office.
Earlier this year, Trump clashed with Zelenskyy in the Oval Office, expressing frustration over continued U.S. military aid. However, Trump has since shown optimism that Putin may accept a ceasefire, stating:
“I’m getting some pretty good vibes coming out of Russia.”
European Nations Take the Lead
With Trump’s unpredictable stance, Starmer and Macron have taken the initiative in forming the “Coalition of the Willing”, aimed at ensuring continued support for Ukraine.
This effort has also led to European countries increasing defense spending, recognizing the need to reduce reliance on U.S. security commitments.
What’s Next?
- Putin’s Decision: Will Russia accept or continue delaying the ceasefire proposal?
- U.S. Role: Will Trump formally engage in the peace process?
- Military Planning: Next week’s UK-led defense summit will determine how Ukraine’s long-term security can be ensured.
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