Former US President Donald Trump has criticised calls from European leaders, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, for the United States to provide security guarantees as part of any Ukraine peace deal.
In a series of remarks, Mr Trump argued that Europe’s insistence on American backing demonstrated weakness in the face of Russia. His comments come as he continues to push for a negotiated settlement between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Trump pauses military aid to Ukraine
Amid his efforts to secure a peace deal, Mr Trump has paused military aid to Ukraine, reportedly to pressure Mr Zelensky into committing to negotiations with Moscow. A White House official confirmed that the administration is “pausing and reviewing” aid to ensure it contributes to a long-term resolution.
During a recent Oval Office meeting, tensions flared between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky, with the latter warning that peace remains “very, very far away”. In response, Mr Trump took to his Truth Social platform, accusing the Ukrainian leader of deliberately prolonging the conflict.
“This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer,” he wrote. “He doesn’t want peace as long as he has America’s backing. Meanwhile, European leaders have admitted they cannot act without the US – which is not a great show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?”
Starmer calls for strong US backing
In contrast to Mr Trump’s stance, Sir Keir has doubled down on his call for strong US support in ensuring a durable peace agreement. Speaking in the House of Commons, he reiterated that British troops and fighter jets could contribute to a peacekeeping mission alongside a “coalition of the willing” from European nations.
“It is right that Europe shoulders the burden of maintaining peace on our continent,” the Prime Minister said. “But to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing.”
Sir Keir also dismissed the proposed minerals deal between the US and Ukraine as insufficient. The deal, which would involve significant American investment in Ukraine’s natural resources, was intended to serve as a form of security guarantee. However, following the Oval Office dispute, Mr Zelensky departed Washington early, delaying its finalisation.
Addressing MPs, Sir Keir said the agreement “is not enough on its own” to ensure Ukraine’s long-term security.
European efforts to strengthen peace talks
Meanwhile, European nations are exploring alternative measures to strengthen a potential ceasefire. Germany and France have reportedly begun discussions on whether to repurpose €200 billion (£165 billion) in frozen Russian assets to hold Moscow accountable for any future violations.
While both countries have historically resisted outright seizure of Russian assets, recent developments suggest a shift in position. French officials have floated the idea of using the funds as leverage, while Germany’s likely next Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has indicated a willingness to consider such proposals.
In the UK, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has approved a £2.26 billion loan scheme to support Ukraine’s reconstruction, which will be repaid using profits from frozen Russian assets. However, Sir Keir acknowledged the legal complexities of directly seizing these funds, stating: “We are doing more work to look at the possibilities, but I am not going to pretend that this is simple or straightforward.”
Defence secretary heads to washington
Defence Secretary John Healey is scheduled to visit the United States this week for discussions with his American counterpart, Pete Hegseth. The talks are expected to focus on securing greater US involvement in European-led peace efforts.
While Mr Trump remains committed to brokering a deal, his reluctance to provide security guarantees has sparked concerns among European allies. Sir Keir has warned against settling for a “weak deal”, arguing that any agreement must ensure Ukraine possesses “significant defensive capabilities” to deter further Russian aggression.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the debate over the US role in Ukraine’s future remains a point of contention between Washington and its European allies.
