Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has issued a stark warning against former US President Donald Trump's suggested peace plan for Ukraine, describing it as a "dangerous" move that would reward Russian aggression.
In an interview with The Independent, Starmer expressed strong support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's position, stating that any peace agreement must respect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Trump's Controversial Proposal
The Labour leader specifically criticised Trump's suggestion that Ukraine should cede Crimea and the Donbas region to Russia as part of a peace deal. "This isn't peace - it's capitulation," Starmer said. "We cannot allow Putin to be rewarded for his illegal invasion."
Historical Parallels Drawn
Starmer drew historical parallels, referencing how Alaska was sold by Russia to the US in 1867. "Just as Alaska's transfer was a negotiated settlement, any resolution in Ukraine must be negotiated - but not at the expense of Ukrainian sovereignty," he remarked.
UK's Continued Support
The opposition leader reaffirmed Labour's commitment to supporting Ukraine if they win the next general election. He emphasised the need for continued military aid and diplomatic support to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression.
Starmer's comments come as Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for the 2024 US election, has repeatedly claimed he could negotiate a peace deal within 24 hours if re-elected.
Zelensky's Conditions for Peace
The Labour leader aligned himself with President Zelensky's peace formula, which includes:
- Complete withdrawal of Russian forces
- Restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity
- Security guarantees for Ukraine's future
- Accountability for war crimes
Starmer concluded: "The UK must stand firm with our Ukrainian allies. Any peace must be just and sustainable, not a temporary pause that allows Putin to regroup and rearm."
