British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced significant diplomatic progress in attempts to end military actions between Russia and Ukraine. In a statement to international media, he emphasized that there is a real possibility of achieving a lasting ceasefire.
The upcoming meeting between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska is seen as a critical moment in efforts to de-escalate the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is not directly present at the meeting, held a preliminary joint conversation with European leaders to outline his country's position.
Starmer firmly stated that the territorial integrity of Ukraine must be protected, emphasizing that international borders cannot be changed through military force. US Vice President JD Vance added that Trump's mission is to restore peace in Europe.
A key point in the negotiations is the expectations of a possible territorial exchange, which raises some concerns that Ukraine might be forced to cede part of its occupied lands. However, the Ukrainian leadership categorically rejects the possibility of recognizing Russian control over annexed territories, including Crimea.
The formed "coalition of the willing" primarily unites European countries ready to provide military support to Ukraine. The goal is to ensure that any potential ceasefire will not be violated and will have the necessary international security guarantees.
During the virtual meeting, leaders discussed potential scenarios for pressuring Russia, including possible expansion of economic sanctions. Starmer pointed out that after three years of conflict, there is now for the first time a real prospect of a lasting solution.
Trump stated that he intends to hold an initial meeting with Putin to "understand the current situation", not ruling out a possible meeting with Zelensky's mediation. At the same time, the American president warned of "extremely serious consequences" if Russia does not show readiness to cease military actions.
Zelensky, for his part, emphasized that the US continues to support Ukraine and accused Putin of not showing a genuine desire for peace. "Putin cannot deceive us," the Ukrainian president firmly stated during a conversation from Berlin.
Vice President Vance, who is currently on a private visit to the United Kingdom, emphasized the importance of allied relations between the two countries. In a speech to American servicemen, he highlighted that joint efforts are directed not only towards waging war but also towards achieving lasting peace and prosperity.
The international community is anxiously awaiting the outcome of the upcoming meeting in Alaska, with all participants demonstrating cautious optimism about the possibilities for a diplomatic resolution of the conflict.