At a London summit, European leaders along with Canada and Turkey committed to sustained military aid for Ukraine, on the heels of a contentious meeting between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged increased defense efforts not only to support peace in Ukraine but also for stability across Europe. However, he emphasized the necessity of U.S. support to realize these efforts.
Starmer hosted Zelenskyy in London, where world leaders expressed their solidarity and pledge for continued support. Participants included leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Czech Republic, Romania, and Turkey. Notable attendees also included European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
Starmer announced at a press conference that the western allies of Ukraine would keep military aid flowing towards a sustainable peace that upholds Ukraine’s sovereignty. He also reaffirmed the UK’s readiness to provide military support if needed.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed Starmer’s sentiments, calling for Europe to strengthen Ukraine economically, energetically, and militarily. She stressed the importance of giving Ukraine the means to deter potential invaders through security guarantees.
Before the summit, Starmer met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, reaffirming support for Ukraine. Meloni suggested Italy and the UK could bridge the gap between Europe and the U.S., emphasizing the importance of Western unity.
Starmer also spoke to leaders from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania via video call, reaffirming support for their sovereignty and the collective defense responsibilities of NATO. The summit highlighted the pressing need for a united stance in the face of recent U.S. policy shifts.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/03/02/europe-agrees-peace-plan-for-ukraine-but-it-needs-us-backing
