Donald Trump has suggested that Europe will take the lead in ensuring security in Ukraine, rather than the United States, as discussions on the future role of the US in the conflict continue. His comments come ahead of Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to Washington, where he is expected to push for a stronger American commitment to Ukraine’s defence.
Trump’s remarks on Ukraine security
Speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Mr Trump stated that “Europe is going to make sure nothing happens” in Ukraine, implying that European nations should take primary responsibility for peacekeeping and security measures. He further claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin would be open to peacekeeping forces on the ground as part of a broader deal to end the war.
“I have asked him that question,” Trump said regarding Putin’s stance. “Look, if we do this deal, he’s not looking for world war.”
His remarks align with his previous demands that European nations increase their defence spending and assume a greater share of the burden in military and security matters.
Sir Keir’s stance on UK involvement
Sir Keir Starmer has been vocal in his commitment to Ukraine, recently stating that the UK is “ready to play a leading role” in securing peace. Writing in The Daily Telegraph, he reiterated that Britain must be “ready and willing to contribute to security guarantees to Ukraine by putting our own troops on the ground if necessary.”
“I do not say that lightly,” he said, acknowledging the weight of the decision. “I feel very deeply the responsibility that comes with potentially putting British servicemen and women in harm’s way.”
This aligns with the UK’s long-standing position of supporting Ukraine through military aid, intelligence sharing, and diplomatic efforts. However, Russian officials have previously stated they would not allow NATO or European forces to be deployed as peacekeepers in Ukraine.
Macron’s influence and European leadership
Trump’s meeting with Macron earlier in the week, which coincided with the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, underscored the growing role of European leaders in shaping Ukraine policy. During the talks, Macron appeared to push back against Trump’s suggestion that Europe had not done enough for Kyiv.
Observers have noted that Starmer’s visit to Washington presents an opportunity for him to take a similarly strong stance. Former Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf urged Starmer to be “firm and robust” in discussions with Trump, highlighting Macron’s assertive approach.
“We do need him to be robust around correcting Donald Trump and any of the inaccuracies should he repeat them,” Yousaf said, referencing Trump’s recent mischaracterisation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a “dictator.”
Sir Keir has avoided direct criticism of Trump but reaffirmed support for Zelensky, calling him Ukraine’s “democratically elected leader.”
Concerns over US commitment
Trump’s remarks add to concerns that the US is reconsidering its commitment to Ukraine. Recently, Washington declined to co-sponsor a United Nations resolution condemning Russia’s war, sparking criticism from Ukrainian allies.
Paul Grod, President of the Ukrainian World Congress, addressed a London audience, warning that “no ally should pressure Ukraine to surrender.” He added, “This is not a conflict where deals can be made. You cannot negotiate with someone who is seeking to destroy you.”
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Britain’s UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward echoed these sentiments, cautioning that a Russian victory would embolden aggressors worldwide. “If Russia is allowed to win, we will live in a world where might is right, where borders can be redrawn by force,” she said.
UK’s continued support and sanctions
Marking the third anniversary of the invasion, the UK announced a significant new sanctions package targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet,” oligarchs, and foreign entities supplying Moscow’s war effort. The Foreign Office introduced 107 new sanctions, including measures against individuals and companies in China, Turkey, and India.
Among those targeted is Russian billionaire Roman Trotsenko, as well as North Korean officials linked to military aid for Russia. The UK’s approach reinforces its ongoing commitment to weakening Russia’s war economy and maintaining pressure on the Kremlin.
As Sir Keir prepares for his US visit, the debate over the West’s long-term commitment to Ukraine remains critical. With Trump advocating for greater European responsibility, the question of whether the US will continue to serve as a key backstop remains open.
