Sir Keir Starmer has expressed significant apprehension regarding a US-backed 28-point proposal to end the war in Ukraine, highlighting particular unease over clauses that would limit Ukraine's military capacity. The Labour leader revealed his 'concern' while attending the G20 summit in Johannesburg, which opened without former US President Donald Trump, who is boycotting the event.
Trump's Peace Plan 'Requires Additional Work'
The draft peace plan, which has been circulated amongst world leaders, bears a striking resemblance to demands long held by the Kremlin. If adopted, the proposal would force Ukraine to cede occupied territories to Russia and accept caps on the size of its military. Sir Keir was unequivocal in his criticism of this aspect when speaking to reporters.
"We are concerned about [caps on military], because it's fundamental that Ukraine has to be able to defend itself if there's a ceasefire," he stated. The Prime Minister confirmed that the proposal "requires additional work" and that the UK would engage in further discussions.
A critical meeting has been scheduled for Sunday in Geneva, Switzerland, where national security advisers from the United States, Ukraine, and key European nations, including the UK, will scrutinise the draft in detail. This comes after President Trump set a deadline for a response from Ukraine by Thursday.
G20 Proceeds Amid US Boycott and Early Declaration
The broader G20 summit, focused on issues affecting the world's poorest nations, has been overshadowed by the Ukraine discussions and the notable absence of the US delegation. The Trump administration is boycotting the talks, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio having previously criticised the South African presidency's agenda for its focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and climate change.
In an unusual move, the G20 leaders broke with tradition and adopted a leaders' declaration at the very start of the summit. Vincent Magwenya, a spokesman for South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, announced that the declaration was adopted unanimously, though specific details were not immediately disclosed.
Sir Keir, who defended his decision to attend the summit just days before a difficult budget, emphasised the G20's "critical" role. "Growth must be a mission for us all to embrace as the means to improve lives, fund public services and to keep our people secure," he said, outlining his desire for a five-point plan for inclusive growth.
Diplomatic Manoeuvres and Forthcoming Talks
Amid the high-stakes diplomacy, Sir Keir confirmed his intention to speak directly with Donald Trump in the coming days. "I'm in touch with him fairly regularly, as you know, and I'll no doubt talk to him in the coming days," the Prime Minister revealed.
He is also set for discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. When pressed on Trump's Thursday deadline for a response from Ukraine, Sir Keir stressed the importance of achieving a just and lasting peace over speed. "Obviously, I think it should be done as soon as possible, but it's got to be a just and lasting peace, and so we've got to get it right," he stated, adding that the Geneva meeting would provide a clearer picture of the way forward.
The situation places the UK and its European allies in a delicate position, navigating between supporting a US-led peace initiative and ensuring Ukraine's sovereignty and long-term security are not compromised. The outcome of the Geneva talks will be pivotal in shaping the international community's next steps.
