Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Thursday, August 14, 2025, in a show of support from the UK government on the eve of a crucial US-Russia summit. The meeting comes as fears grow that US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin might strike a deal that forces Ukraine into painful concessions during their summit in Alaska. Zelensky was not invited to the meeting between Trump and Putin, which has raised concerns among Ukrainian officials and European allies.
During their meeting, Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s support for Ukraine, emphasizing that there is now a “viable” chance for a ceasefire in the conflict. Starmer also highlighted that Ukraine’s military backers, known as the Coalition of the Willing, have prepared practical military plans in case a ceasefire is agreed upon, while also being ready to increase pressure on Russia through sanctions if necessary. Zelensky, who has refused to surrender territory to Russia, expressed his skepticism about Putin’s intentions, stating that the Russian leader “definitely does not want peace”.
The UK’s show of support for Ukraine comes as the conflict with Russia continues to escalate, with Ukraine launching drone strikes on Russian territory, including an oil refinery in Volgograd, in response to Moscow’s ongoing missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian civilians. The upcoming summit between Trump and Putin has significant implications for the future of the conflict, and Zelensky’s meeting with Starmer underscores the importance of international diplomacy in shaping the next steps.
