In the peculiar domain where Keir Starmer along with his assistants operate, the United States placing the responsibility on Russia to agree on a truce with Ukraine represented a significant triumph. This proposed 30-day ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine culminates from two weeks of intricate negotiations involving Ukraine, the US, the UK, France, and Germany. It has been revealed within hours of the plan being made public on Tuesday, that among its architects was Jonathan Powell, a veteran of the New Labour era who has risen as a pivotal figure in shaping British foreign policy under Starmer.
Powell was in Ukraine over the weekend, finalizing the terms of the proposal in writing with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, before Ukraine and the US engaged in decisive negotiations on Tuesday to finalize the agreement. Emily Thornberry, the Labour chair of the Commons foreign affairs committee, praised Powell’s role and influence, noting his conversations with influential figures in the US, Germany, and France, and his successful negotiation and crafting of the offer and response in Ukraine.
The success of Powell in steering the UK’s response to the events between Donald Trump and Zelenskyy in the Oval Office on February 28th was particularly noted, where he advised against an immediate social media reaction from Starmer and instead encouraged direct conversations with both leaders. Thornberry highlighted Powell’s ability to bring a depth of understanding and calm to his role.
Additionally, the role of Jonathan Powell has highlighted concerns regarding the workload and the frequency of his travels as a chief envoy. Despite these concerns, Powell has also been appointed as No 10’s de facto chief adviser on foreign policy, filling the void left by John Bew. His ability to adapt politically and to speak and act on behalf of the prime minister have been praised by foreign policy experts, indicating his central role in the government’s foreign policy planning and execution.
This development has raised questions about the sidelining of Foreign Secretary David Lammy in foreign policy affairs, noting how different Prime Ministers have varied in their distribution of power between Downing Street and the Foreign Office. Nonetheless, Lammy’s allies affirm his close involvement in the ceasefire negotiations and his foundational efforts to engage with the Trump administration and the U.S.
The intricacies of the situation have highlighted the importance of coordination and strong diplomacy in navigating complex international relations, particularly with influential figures in different governments shaping foreign policy outcomes.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/mar/14/jonathan-powell-the-veteran-negotiator-being-lauded-over-us-ukraine-detente
