Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a £1.6 billion export finance deal to provide Ukraine with air defence missiles, reinforcing the UK’s commitment to supporting Kyiv against Russian aggression.
Under the agreement, 5,000 missiles will be manufactured in Belfast, a crucial step in strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities.
The announcement came during a high-profile summit in London, where European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, gathered for urgent discussions on European security.
Starmer emphasised the need for decisive action, urging European nations to unite in securing a lasting peace.
The UK has reaffirmed its readiness to play a leading role in defending European stability, including deploying military forces if necessary.
The Prime Minister stressed that any peace settlement must be on fair terms and that Russia must not be allowed to dictate the outcome.
Previous ceasefires have repeatedly been violated by Moscow, highlighting the need for a robust and enforceable agreement.
Several nations have expressed interest in contributing to a peace plan, with discussions ongoing about the best way forward.
Starmer’s priority is to ensure a sustainable solution that prevents future escalations and guarantees Ukraine’s security.
The Prime Minister’s key objective is to bridge the growing divide between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following their heated exchange at the White House.
Starmer hopes to establish a European-led peace framework that can later be presented to Washington, ensuring a unified transatlantic strategy.
During the summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the urgent need for greater military investment across Europe.
She called on member states to increase defence spending and ensure that European nations are fully prepared to support Ukraine in the long term.
The UK’s commitment to military assistance reflects a broader effort to reassure allies and maintain European security.
Following two hours of discussions, President Zelensky left the summit early and travelled by helicopter to Sandringham, where he met with King Charles.
The summit was described as a pivotal moment for European security, with leaders focusing on coordinated efforts to counter Russian aggression.
Large pro-Ukraine demonstrations in central London further highlighted the strength of public support for Ukraine.
The UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to standing with Ukraine, both through military aid and diplomatic efforts.
Ahead of the summit, Starmer met privately with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Downing Street, where they discussed the importance of maintaining Western unity on Ukraine.
Their meeting underscored growing concerns about divisions within the West and the need for a strong, collective response to Russian aggression.
Securing a Lasting Peace
Reflecting on the recent tensions between Trump and Zelensky, Starmer acknowledged the challenges in securing a peace deal but remained committed to bridging the divide. His focus is on ensuring that any agreement reached is not just a temporary pause but a lasting solution that prevents future conflicts.
As a result of the London summit, the UK, along with France and potentially other European partners, will collaborate with Ukraine to draft a comprehensive peace proposal. The plan will later be discussed with the United States to ensure a coordinated approach.
The UK government has made it clear that any settlement must be strong enough to deter further Russian aggression. The history of previous ceasefires being breached has reinforced the need for a binding agreement that guarantees Ukraine’s sovereignty and long-term security.
This latest development marks a significant step in European efforts to address the conflict in Ukraine. With growing international cooperation, the UK is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of European security.
