Sir Keir Starmer has spoken to US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after a tense meeting in the Oval Office where Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelensky. Downing Street confirmed the prime minister held calls with both leaders on Friday evening, reiterating the UK's steadfast backing for Ukraine.
A No 10 spokesman said Starmer retains 'unwavering support for Ukraine' and is working towards a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security. The prime minister is set to host international leaders on Sunday, including President Zelensky, as part of efforts to de-escalate tensions.
Trump later told reporters he wants an 'immediate' ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, warning Zelensky to make peace or lose American support. He described Ukraine's position as weak, stating it does not 'have the cards' and that the US is seeking peace, not a prolonged war.
Fourteen Democratic governors condemned Trump and Vance for using the Oval Office to 'berate' Zelensky for not trusting Vladimir Putin. Former prime minister Boris Johnson called for cool heads, urging the signing of a minerals deal to strengthen US-Ukraine ties.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni proposed an immediate US-Europe summit to foster unity, warning that division weakens the West. In contrast, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán suggested Zelensky is obstructing peace efforts.
