UK's Starmer concedes peaces talks may end Ukraine conflict

3/12/2024 5:53

        British Prime Minister Keir
        Starmer said on Monday stepping up support for Ukraine was
        essential to put the country in the strongest position for peace
        talks as he conceded in the clearest terms there could be a
        negotiated end to the war.
        
        Starmer stressed the importance of continued Western support
        to Ukraine and warned a Russian victory in Ukraine would
        threaten Europe's security, stability and prosperity,
        particularly because it could embolden Russia's allies.
        
        "We must continue to back Ukraine and do what it takes to
        support their self-defence for as long as it takes," Starmer
        said in a speech in London's historic financial district.
        
        "To put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for
        negotiations so they can secure a just and lasting peace on
        their terms that guarantees their security, independence - and
        right to choose their own future."
        
        Starmer's comments come at crucial moment in the war with
        Russia advancing at its fastest rate since 2022 and U.S.
        President-elect Donald Trump - who is deeply sceptical of U.S.
        support for Ukraine - promising to end the war quickly after he
        is inaugurated on Jan. 20.
        
        Britain has been one of Ukraine's most vocal supporters
        since the start of the invasion by Russia in 2022 and was the
        first country to supply more sophisticated weapons to Ukraine,
        including battle tanks and long-range cruise missiles.
        
        This was the clearest language, Starmer, who was elected
        prime minister in July, has used about the war with Russia
        ending in a negotiated settlement, a British government official
        told Reuters.
        
        In previous comments, Starmer has said the war should end by
        Russia leaving Ukraine's internationally recognised borders.
        
        Trump's election has added pressure on Europe to step up its
        role in arming Kyiv should the United States, the biggest
        individual donor, reduce its aid.
        
        Starmer said it was "vital that all European nations step up
        to protect our shared future" because "the future of freedom in
        Europe is being decided today".
        
        "We face a near and present danger with Russia as an
        erratic, increasingly desperate aggressor on our continent
        marshalling all its resources - along with North Korean troops
        and Iranian missiles - aiming to kill and to conquer," he said.