UPDATE: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is currently in Johannesburg at the G20 summit, engaging with key allies to discuss a US-drafted peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. This urgent meeting is taking place as Western nations grapple with the implications of a controversial proposal that demands significant concessions from Ukraine, including territorial compromises.
At the summit on November 25, 2023, Starmer held a crucial 25-minute discussion with France’s President Emmanuel Macron and Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz. This initial meeting quickly expanded to include leaders from the G7 and G20, including representatives from Japan, Canada, and the European Union. The urgency of these talks comes as Donald Trump has set a Thursday deadline for Ukraine to respond to the US peace plan.
“This is a pivotal moment,” Starmer stated before the summit. He emphasized that Ukraine’s allies must collaborate to secure a ceasefire and facilitate meaningful negotiations. “Ukraine has been ready to negotiate for months, while Russia has stalled and continued its murderous rampage,” he added, condemning Russia’s recent missile attacks that included nearly 1,000 drones and 54 precision-guided missiles.
As the discussions unfold, the 28-point plan crafted by US President Joe Biden’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, has raised eyebrows. The plan reportedly excludes key input from Ukrainian and European officials, raising concerns about its viability. Russian President Vladimir Putin has cautiously welcomed the proposal, suggesting it could serve as a foundation for peace, yet criticized the lack of substantive dialogue with Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the situation as “one of the most difficult moments” in Ukraine’s history. In a call with Starmer, Macron, and Merz, he reiterated that the future of Ukraine must be determined by its own sovereignty.
Starmer’s meeting is not only focused on peace negotiations but also includes discussions on strengthening military and economic support for Ukraine. The Prime Minister is expected to announce a £4 billion maritime agreement in a call with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during the summit, which aims to jointly develop naval capabilities and create 1,000 jobs in the UK.
Despite the absence of key figures like Trump and Putin at the summit, Starmer’s diplomatic efforts underscore the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine. His spokesperson denied claims that the UK was sidelined in negotiations, asserting the strong relationship between US and UK leadership.
As the summit progresses, all eyes are on how the discussions will shape future peace efforts and military strategies in the region. With the stakes higher than ever, the urgency for a unified response to the conflict in Ukraine is palpable.
Expect further updates as this situation develops.
