His remarks came after a 90-minute virtual security meeting with leaders from over 20 countries and organizations, including NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney.
"President Zelensky, who’s with us this morning, has shown once again that Ukraine is the party of peace because he has agreed to and committed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire," Starmer said.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Russia must prove its willingness to uphold a ceasefire.
She also reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities, highlighting an ongoing initiative to boost military preparedness.
A key element of this plan is a loan fund providing EU member states with low-interest credit for priority defense investments.
Starmer stressed on Saturday that European nations and Western allies stand ready to increase support for Ukraine if a peace deal is reached.
"We will build up Ukraine's own defences and armed forces and be ready to deploy as a 'coalition of the willing' in the event of a peace deal, to help secure Ukraine on land, at sea, and in the sky," he said.
The British leader also used the meeting to rally allies in pressuring Russian President Vladimir Putin to accept a ceasefire deal backed by US President Donald Trump and to secure firm commitments ensuring Ukraine’s long-term security.
"Our militaries will meet on Thursday this week here in the United Kingdom to put strong and robust plans in place to support a peace deal and guarantee Ukraine's future security," Starmer added.
Starmer reiterated that Western allies would continue their coordinated efforts to counter Russian aggression.
"We agreed we will keep increasing the pressure on Russia, keep the military aid flowing to Ukraine, and keep tightening restrictions on Russia's economy to weaken Putin's war machine and bring him to the table," he told reporters.
Zelensky later wrote on X: "The path to peace must begin unconditionally. And if Russia doesn’t want this, then strong pressure must be applied until they do. Moscow understands one language."
Poland was represented by its defence minister, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, who told reporters: "There is full unity in continuing support for Ukraine. Many have emphasized that all actions in support of Ukraine must strengthen NATO's eastern flank. This is very important news for Poland."
(ał)
Source: Reuters, IAR