Downing Street has refrained from supporting Donald Trump’s assertion that Russian President Vladimir Putin is eager to end the war in Ukraine. Trump, speaking last week, expressed his belief that Putin seeks peace, stating that the Russian leader “wants to end the war” and may be more generous than expected once it concludes.
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However, an official spokesman for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer responded by emphasising that if Putin genuinely wished to demonstrate his commitment to peace, he could end the conflict by withdrawing Russian forces from Ukraine. “We all want to see an end to this war,” the spokesman noted, “and it’s within Russia’s power to stop it at any time.”
Pressed on whether the prime minister agrees with Trump’s assessment, the spokesman was cautious, citing Putin’s “illegal, barbaric invasion” of Ukraine as evidence that the Russian leader will go to great lengths to achieve his objectives. The spokesman added, “We share President Trump’s desire for peace, but we must ensure this peace is lasting and credible.”
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The UK government is working closely with Ukraine, the US, France, and other allies to develop a robust peace plan that includes necessary security guarantees. In addition, Prime Minister Starmer is building a coalition of willing nations to ensure any future ceasefire becomes a permanent solution to the conflict.
