The UK Prime Minister stresses the need for concrete actions to ensure Ukraine's peace and security.
Military Operations for Ukraine Ceasefire Underway, Says Starmer
Military Operations for Ukraine Ceasefire Underway, Says Starmer
Plans gain momentum as global leaders gather for military coordination.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that military planning to support a potential ceasefire in Ukraine is advancing into an "operational phase" following a virtual summit with 29 global leaders. Military strategists are scheduled to convene in the UK on Thursday to formulate comprehensive plans aimed at solidifying a peace agreement and securing Ukraine's future. This meeting comes after Ukraine's commitment to a 30-day ceasefire, reached during discussions with the United States, with Russian President Vladimir Putin expressing conditional agreement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the situation as critical, stating that "active pressure is required, not mere discussions." He underscored that "Russia is the sole barrier to peace," urging for immediate and unconditional terms for negotiations. Zelensky called upon European nations to expedite their arms production and collaborates with the US to expedite a firm resolution via stringent sanctions that compel Russia to seek peace.
In his remarks after the virtual meeting, Starmer emphasized that the world necessitates decisive actions rather than vague assurances. He specifically criticized the Kremlin for its hesitance and ongoing military aggression, which contradict Putin's professed intentions for peace. To counter such behavior, leaders concluded that should Putin decline an "immediate and unconditional ceasefire," there would be a need to elevate pressure through heightened military aid and sanctions targeting Russia's financial resources.
Putin, while indicating support for a ceasefire, raised multiple questions regarding the details, such as Ukraine's potential rearmament and enforcement mechanisms. Participant nations included members of NATO, the European Union, and countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Military leaders plan to discuss specific actions to enhance Ukrainian defense and establish a "coalition of the willing" to support peace efforts on land, sea, and air.
Starmer has previously indicated readiness to deploy UK troops in Ukraine to help safeguard its security under a peace accord, while advocating for substantial commitments from other European nations. During a post-summit press conference, Zelensky noted the necessity for some form of military presence after a ceasefire, despite recognizing skepticism surrounding this approach.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb shared that they are eager to participate in peace support initiatives, yet caution against premature discussions of ground troop deployment without a ceasefire or a defined peace strategy. Stubb emphasized a range of supportive options that could be considered, highlighting that deploying troops represents just one of many potential avenues for assistance. The ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties since Russia escalated its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the situation as critical, stating that "active pressure is required, not mere discussions." He underscored that "Russia is the sole barrier to peace," urging for immediate and unconditional terms for negotiations. Zelensky called upon European nations to expedite their arms production and collaborates with the US to expedite a firm resolution via stringent sanctions that compel Russia to seek peace.
In his remarks after the virtual meeting, Starmer emphasized that the world necessitates decisive actions rather than vague assurances. He specifically criticized the Kremlin for its hesitance and ongoing military aggression, which contradict Putin's professed intentions for peace. To counter such behavior, leaders concluded that should Putin decline an "immediate and unconditional ceasefire," there would be a need to elevate pressure through heightened military aid and sanctions targeting Russia's financial resources.
Putin, while indicating support for a ceasefire, raised multiple questions regarding the details, such as Ukraine's potential rearmament and enforcement mechanisms. Participant nations included members of NATO, the European Union, and countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Military leaders plan to discuss specific actions to enhance Ukrainian defense and establish a "coalition of the willing" to support peace efforts on land, sea, and air.
Starmer has previously indicated readiness to deploy UK troops in Ukraine to help safeguard its security under a peace accord, while advocating for substantial commitments from other European nations. During a post-summit press conference, Zelensky noted the necessity for some form of military presence after a ceasefire, despite recognizing skepticism surrounding this approach.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb shared that they are eager to participate in peace support initiatives, yet caution against premature discussions of ground troop deployment without a ceasefire or a defined peace strategy. Stubb emphasized a range of supportive options that could be considered, highlighting that deploying troops represents just one of many potential avenues for assistance. The ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties since Russia escalated its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
