In a phone call with Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made sure to emphasize that Ukraine must be in the “strongest possible position” to secure a “just and lasting peace” with Russia. Walking a diplomatic tightrope with the U.S. president, Starmer is using his political skills to avoid antagonizing Trump while maintaining Britain’s strategic position on Ukraine.
Downing Street confirmed that the Labour leader and Trump spoke ahead of Trump’s anticipated conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin today, a call in which Trump has said he intends to discuss the division of “certain assets.”
While Trump is pushing for Russia to agree to a 30-day ceasefire—something Ukraine has already accepted—the most challenging aspect of any peace negotiation will be determining the future of Ukrainian territory. The Biden administration has maintained that Russia must return all annexed regions, but Trump does not share this stance.
Starmer’s insistence on ensuring Ukraine is in the “strongest position” underscores not only his focus on securing the best possible territorial outcome for Kyiv but also shaping the post-conflict landscape, where he hopes to engage the “coalition of the willing,” a group of nations backing Ukraine’s defense.
With diplomatic negotiations gaining momentum, Starmer’s engagement with Trump signals Britain’s ongoing effort to align with its key allies while carefully managing relations with a current occupant of the White House.
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