Keir Starmer Pushes for US Role in Ukraine to Safeguard European Peace.
Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the UK, has once again stressed the need for a security guarantee from the United States to deter Russian President Vladimir Putin from launching another invasion, as he prepares for his meeting with Donald Trump.
On his flight to Washington DC on Thursday, February 27, Starmer expressed his hope that the UK-US relationship would continue to grow stronger, even as both nations face global challenges.
While discussions about the possibility of sending British troops to Ukraine are still ongoing, Starmer emphasized the crucial role of a US security “backstop.” When asked for details on what form this guarantee might take, he responded, “The specifics of the backstop are still under discussion, but I’m very clear on the principles.”
In contrast, Trump has made it clear that he’s not ready to commit to broad security guarantees, stating, “I’m not going to make security guarantees beyond a certain point.” He further suggested that Europe should take on more responsibility, given that it’s geographically closer to Ukraine. However, he added that the potential deal between Washington and Kyiv regarding access to Ukrainian minerals was “great” for Ukraine because it brings US involvement to the region. “We’ll be on the ground, and that will provide automatic security since no one will dare mess with our people,” Trump stated.
Starmer, on the other hand, outlined his vision for securing peace in Europe and Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of achieving lasting peace rather than merely a ceasefire. “For peace to endure, we need security guarantees,” he said. “I believe that without a backstop, a ceasefire would give Putin the chance to regroup and attack again, as his intentions regarding Ukraine are very clear.”
At a reception at the UK Ambassador’s residence in Washington the previous evening, Starmer spoke about forging a “new partnership” with the United States, asserting that the best days for both nations were still ahead. Lord Mandelson, the British Ambassador, echoed Starmer’s sentiment, describing Trump as a “very consequential president” and highlighting the critical moment facing democracies worldwide. He added, “The US and the UK share so much, and when it comes to trade, we have a fair and balanced relationship that benefits both sides.”
