Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Saturday following a tense meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House. Greeted with cheers outside Downing Street, Zelenskiy discussed security guarantees and strengthening Ukraine’s position with Starmer, who reaffirmed Britain’s unwavering support.
Trump’s remarks in the Oval Office, suggesting a withdrawal of U.S. support for Ukraine, have sparked concern among European leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron, after speaking with both Trump and Zelenskiy, urged calm and called for continued diplomatic efforts.
Russia’s political figures celebrated what they perceived as Zelenskiy’s setback in Washington, as Ukraine failed to secure a minerals deal that could have influenced U.S. aid discussions. Trump’s Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized Zelenskiy’s handling of the situation, while the Ukrainian leader expressed regret in an interview, hoping to mend relations with Trump.
Amid growing divisions between the U.S. and Europe on Ukraine, Starmer assured Zelenskiy of Britain’s steadfast backing. "We stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes," he stated. Zelenskiy also plans to meet King Charles at Sandringham on Sunday, further solidifying UK-Ukraine relations.
Meanwhile, Starmer presented Trump with a state visit invitation from King Charles, making him the first elected U.S. leader to receive such an honor twice.
As Ukraine seeks firm commitments from allies, European leaders continue to rally behind Zelenskiy. The upcoming European summit will be crucial in determining further support and potential resolutions for the ongoing war.