On Sunday, March 2, 2025, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that European leaders have agreed to craft a comprehensive Ukraine peace plan to present to the United States. This move aims to secure vital security guarantees for Kyiv and deter Russian aggression.
The decision emerged from a high-stakes summit in London, attended by leaders from across Europe and beyond, just days after a tense clash between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump.
The London summit followed Zelensky’s abrupt departure from Washington after a heated exchange with Trump. European leaders responded with a strong message of solidarity, pledging to bolster Ukraine’s defenses and push for a lasting peace. Starmer, who greeted a shaken Zelensky with a warm embrace on Saturday, emphasized the moment’s urgency. “We’re at a crossroads in history,” he told the media. “This isn’t about more talk, it’s time to act, lead, and unite for a just peace.”
Starmer revealed plans for a “coalition of the willing,” including the UK, France, Ukraine, and other unnamed nations, to draft the peace proposal. He hinted that more countries are ready to join this effort to engage Trump and ensure U.S. involvement.
Boosting Defense Spending to Sway Trump
With Trump’s administration casting doubt on U.S. support for Ukraine since his January return to the White House, Europe is scrambling to prove its self-reliance. Leaders agreed that increasing defense budgets is key to convincing Trump to guarantee security. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the need for a sustained surge in investment. “After years of underfunding, we must make Ukraine a steel porcupine unassailable to invaders,” she said, suggesting the EU could relax debt rules to free up funds.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed this sentiment, urging Europe to shoulder more NATO defense costs while maintaining close U.S. ties. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte noted that some leaders privately outlined new spending plans but kept details under wraps.
UK Commits £1.6 Billion for Ukrainian Defense
In a bold move, Starmer announced that the UK will provide £1.6 billion in export finance to help Ukraine purchase over 5,000 air defense missiles. This commitment underscores Europe’s resolve to strengthen Kyiv’s defenses amid fears of waning U.S. support following Trump’s recent push for a Russia-negotiated peace deal.
Read: Zelensky Seeks to Repair US Ties After Trump’s White House Outburst
Lacking the U.S.’s vast weaponry and ammunition reserves, Europe hopes to demonstrate its ability to stand firm. Talks with Washington have focused on a U.S. “backstop” for a European peacekeeping role potentially including air cover, intelligence, and a stronger deterrent against Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, securing Trump’s approval hinges on Europe’s willingness to boost defense spending and commit to peacekeeping duties—a tough sell among cash-strapped nations.
Trump’s recent actions, including an unannounced call to Putin and talks in Saudi Arabia excluding Ukraine, have rattled European leaders. His criticism of Zelensky and false claims about Ukraine starting the war have further strained relations.
Zelensky’s Diplomatic Push
After clashing with Trump, Zelensky met King Charles at his eastern England residence, reinforcing UK support. Though casually dressed, Zelensky faced no wardrobe critique from the King, a small but symbolic gesture of acceptance amid turbulent times. Meanwhile, White House Adviser Mike Waltz hinted at U.S. frustration, stating on CNN that Zelensky must show readiness for peace with Russia, a prospect Kyiv resists without firm guarantees.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov praised Trump’s “common sense,” accusing Europe of prolonging the conflict with peacekeeping proposals. At the London summit attended by leaders from Germany, Italy, Poland, Canada, and more, Starmer stressed that Kyiv must sit at any peace table. An upcoming EU emergency summit in Brussels will include Moscow-friendly leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orban, highlighting Europe’s divisions.
Europe’s leaders are clear: securing peace in Ukraine requires their resolve and U.S. backing. With the Ukraine peace plan taking shape, the continent aims to bridge transatlantic gaps and fortify Kyiv against future threats. As Starmer said, “This effort must succeed with strong U.S. support for peace to endure.”
