Western leaders at the G20 summit in Johannesburg have voiced significant reservations about the US peace plan for Ukraine, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer leading the criticism. The draft plan, leaked this week, includes concessions to Russia such as ceding parts of eastern Ukraine and limiting Kyiv's military capabilities, prompting European leaders to demand major revisions.
In a joint statement, European leaders acknowledged the plan contains 'important elements' but stressed it 'requires additional work'. They emphasised that 'borders must not be changed by force' and that any provisions involving the EU or Nato require their consent. The statement was signed by leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Finland, Norway, the EU, Canada, and Japan.
Speaking on the sidelines, Starmer expressed concern over proposals to cap Ukraine's military, stating it is 'fundamental that Ukraine has to be able to defend itself'. He noted a consensus among allies that the 28-point plan needs further refinement. Later, Starmer spoke with Donald Trump and agreed to collaborate on the plan during talks in Geneva.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned the G20 risks losing relevance due to its inability to resolve major crises, citing the US boycott and lack of consensus on issues like sovereignty. He insisted 'there can be no peace in Ukraine without Ukrainians' and called for renewed engagement within the forum.
Ukrainian and US officials are set to meet in Switzerland to discuss the plan, with national security advisers from both sides and Europe gathering on Sunday. The G20 also called for peace in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Palestinian territories, though the Ukraine crisis dominated proceedings.
