Diplomatic Maneuvers and Uncertain Peace Prospects

Keir Starmer has expressed strong distrust of Vladimir Putin, stating that he cannot be trusted. He emphasized that any peace agreement must not be imposed on Ukraine.

As Donald Trump prepares to meet with the Russian president, Downing Street affirmed Britain's commitment to supporting Kyiv until a just peace is achieved. This follows a weekend of support for Ukraine from Britain and its European allies, as Volodymyr Zelensky rejected Trump's suggestion of a deal involving territorial concessions to Moscow. Zelensky has insisted that Ukraine will not cede any land to Russia.

Downing Street clarified that any decision regarding land concessions rests with Ukraine. When asked about trusting Putin in peace talks, No. 10 reiterated the lack of trust in the Russian leader while emphasizing support for Ukraine, President Trump, and European nations during negotiations. The UK is leading efforts on a "coalition of the willing" to ensure that a ceasefire isn't just an opportunity for Russia to rearm and resume aggression.

Sir Keir has engaged in extensive discussions with countries in the "coalition of willing," including France, to explore security guarantees for a potential peace deal. The UK will not reward aggression or compromise Ukraine's sovereignty.

Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance indicated that Europe must increase its financial support for Ukraine, as the US is nearing the end of its funding for the war. The Kremlin has stated that Trump and Putin will discuss options for a long-term peaceful resolution during their meeting. Putin is expected to present demands, including Ukraine ceding two eastern regions and Crimea.

Trump has suggested that land swaps may be part of the negotiations, potentially benefiting both sides. Ukraine has been fighting to repel Russian forces since the war began in February 2022. Russia claims the war is due to threats to its security, while Ukraine and its allies view it as an act of aggression. Russia currently occupies approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz organized talks involving JD Vance, Zelensky, NATO's chief, and other European leaders to discuss further actions to pressure Russia and prepare for potential peace negotiations, including territorial claims and security.

In a separate incident, three people died after triggering explosive devices while swimming in restricted areas off Ukraine's Black Sea coast. The governor of Odesa reported the deaths in Karolino-Bugaz and Zatoka. Many beaches have been declared unsafe due to the presence of mines laid by both sides since the invasion.