Zelensky Gains European Support Amid Clash with Trump; UK and France Make Big Promises

After a heated exchange with Donald Trump in the U.S., several European nations have come forward in support of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Both the UK and France have expressed their willingness to collaborate with Ukraine on a ceasefire plan. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that Britain will provide 5,000 defense missiles to Ukraine, allocating £1.6 billion (approximately $2 billion). This marks a significant boost in European support for Ukraine. Following the confrontation with Trump at the Oval Office, there were concerns that the U.S. might align more openly with Russia, making things difficult for Zelensky. However, European nations are now actively backing Ukraine and aim to involve the U.S. in the process.

Europe Seeks U.S. Involvement

British PM Keir Starmer stated that the UK, France, and Ukraine have agreed to work together on a ceasefire plan, which will now be presented to the U.S. He made this announcement ahead of a summit with European leaders on Sunday to discuss ending the war. Starmer emphasized that this plan emerged from discussions among leaders of the four countries. However, the incident in the Oval Office remained a dominant topic at the European leaders’ summit.

Ceasefire Alone Is Not Enough; A Permanent Agreement Needed

Starmer stressed that his focus is on resuming peace talks. Both he and French President Emmanuel Macron have discussed this with Donald Trump. Starmer stated, “I don’t trust Russian President Vladimir Putin, but I do trust Trump. Trump also wants lasting peace.” Discussions are underway regarding security guarantees from the U.S. The British PM further explained, “If an agreement is to be made and fighting is to stop, it must be defended. The worst outcome would be a temporary ceasefire, only for Putin to return. This has happened before, and I see it as a real risk. That is why we must ensure that any agreement reached is a permanent one, not just a temporary ceasefire.”

Europe Unites for Ukraine

Keir Starmer reaffirmed his determination to help end the war between Ukraine and Russia. The summit includes leaders from France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Romania. Additionally, Turkey’s foreign minister, NATO’s secretary-general, as well as the presidents of the European Commission and the European Council, are also participating.

Warm Welcome for Zelensky in the UK

After visiting the U.S., Zelensky received a warm welcome in the UK. PM Starmer embraced him upon arrival. When Zelensky reached the British Prime Minister’s office at 10 Downing Street on Saturday, crowds gathered outside, chanting in support of him. The meeting took place on the eve of the European leaders’ summit, where discussions will focus on how Europe can defend Ukraine and itself if the U.S. withdraws its support. Addressing Zelensky, Starmer said, “As you’ve heard from the chants outside, you have the support of the entire UK.” He reassured, “No matter how long this war takes, we stand with you.” Zelensky expressed gratitude to the British people for their unwavering support.