Noting the cheers coming from the street, Starmer told the Ukrainian leader: “The people of the United Kingdom have come out to show how strongly they support you, how deeply they support Ukraine. We will stand by you and Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
In response, Zelensky thanked the United Kingdom and emphasized that “from the first day of the war, Ukraine has felt the support of the British people.”
Zelensky arrived in the UK following tense negotiations with President Donald Trump, which ended in a public spat. During the London meeting, Zelensky and Starmer signed a loan agreement for £2.26 billion ($2.85 billion), which will be used for Ukraine's military needs. The funds for repaying the loan will come from frozen Russian assets.
“This is true justice – whoever started the war must pay for it,” Zelensky stated.
After meeting with Zelensky on Saturday, Starmer held talks with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron. On Sunday, he will host a summit of European leaders to discuss the resolution of the war in Ukraine and strengthening Europe’s defense. Zelensky is also expected to meet with King Charles III.
Recent events in Washington have raised concerns among European leaders, as the Trump administration increasingly indicates a reduction of U.S. involvement in European security. Starmer positions himself as a link between Europe and the U.S., aiming to support Ukraine in securing American security guarantees.
European Summit in London
The Sunday summit in London will be a pivotal moment in Europe’s strategy to counter Russian aggression amid changing U.S. policies. The meeting will address enhancing Europe’s defense capabilities and the prospect of obtaining security guarantees from Washington as part of a future peace agreement.
At the London summit, Starmer and Zelensky will be joined by leaders from France, Germany, Poland, heads of the European Commission and the European Council, as well as the NATO Secretary General.
According to Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a special defense package from the European Commission will be presented on March 6.
Before the previous summit in Paris, Starmer proposed deploying British troops to Ukraine as part of a European peacekeeping mission, but specified that American “security assurances” would be necessary for this.
The Trump administration continues to avoid making clear commitments to military support for Ukraine, offering economic cooperation, including a deal on minerals. However, following the latest conflict, reports emerged that Trump is considering a complete cessation of military aid to Ukraine.
Earlier, “Kursiv” reported that European leaders expressed unequivocal support for Ukraine following a heated exchange between Vladimir Zelensky, Donald Trump, and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance at the White House.