UK, France, Ukraine to propose ceasefire plan for Russia's war
What's the story
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that the United Kingdom, France, and Ukraine are working on a ceasefire plan for Russia's war in Ukraine.
The proposal is meant to be submitted to the United States after talks between the leaders of the four countries.
The development comes after a controversial meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump.
Diplomatic efforts
London summit seeks to advance peace negotiations
Starmer is hosting a summit in London with European leaders to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
The meeting comes after a turbulent week of diplomacy, highlighted by Trump's public reprimand of Zelenskyy at the White House.
Peter Ricketts, former British national security adviser, called the situation a "damage limitation exercise" for European leaders.
Solidarity show
European leaders unite to support Ukraine
The London summit features leaders from various European nations, Canada, Turkey's foreign minister, NATO's secretary-general, and the European Commission and European Council presidents.
Amid fears over Trump's direct peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the leaders are coming together to back Ukraine and bolster continental defenses.
"We have an opportunity to come together to ensure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine that secures their sovereignty and security," Starmer said.
Financial aid
Europe's role in supporting Ukraine amid US neutrality
Rachel Ellehuus from the Royal United Services Institute suggested Europe must now take the lead in supporting Ukraine because of Trump's neutral stance. She proposed releasing €200 billion in seized Russian assets for this purpose.
Further, Starmer has pledged to increase UK military spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, while Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala called for increased arms spending across Europe to at least 3% of GDP.
Defense focus
European leaders advocate for increased defense spending
French President Emmanuel Macron recognized the US's pivot to Asia but called on Europe to become more sovereign and united. He stressed on defense spending as key to European security.
The London summit seeks to cement Europe's commitment to supporting Ukraine militarily and financially before any peace talks begin.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni suggested an emergency summit with global allies to tackle issues such as the Ukrainian conflict.