UK's Starmer Backs Ukraine Amid Trump’s Ceasefire Progress with Russia

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday, discussing U.S. President Donald Trump’s progress toward ceasefire talks with Russia, according to Downing Street. Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s “unwavering support” for Ukraine, while Zelenskiy provided updates on the frontline situation.

Britain welcomed the developments, emphasizing that negotiations must result in a “just and lasting peace.” Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to temporarily halt attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure but refused to commit to the full 30-day ceasefire Trump had proposed as a step toward a permanent peace agreement.

Ukraine signaled support for the limited agreement, which would see both nations cease strikes on energy infrastructure for 30 days. Zelenskiy expressed the need for further discussions, stating, “It will be right that we have a conversation with President Trump to understand what the Russians and Americans have proposed.”

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, the war has killed or wounded hundreds of thousands, displaced millions, and devastated Ukrainian cities. With international efforts to broker peace intensifying, the focus remains on securing a ceasefire that could pave the way for long-term stability.