The Prime Minister will intensify his efforts in pursuit of a
just and lasting peace in Ukraine by convening international
leaders at a summit in London today.
The Prime Minister has this weekend reiterated his unwavering
support for Ukraine and is determined to find a way forward that
brings an end to Russia's illegal war and guarantees Ukraine a
lasting peace based on sovereignty and security.
The summit rounds off a week of intense diplomacy for the Prime
Minister, which has seen him raise UK defence spending and travel
to Washington for productive talks with President Trump in
support of UK and European security. The Prime Minister spoke
again with both President Trump and President Zelenskyy on Friday
evening following the events of yesterday at the Presidents'
meeting in Washington DC.
The Prime Minister will welcome Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia
Meloni to Downing Street this morning, before being joined at the
summit in central London by the leaders of Ukraine, France,
Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain,
Turkey, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Romania. The Turkish
Foreign Minister, NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of
the European Commission and European Council will also attend.
The Prime Minister has been clear that there can be no
negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine, a determination he
reiterated when he warmly welcomed President Zelenskyy to Downing
Street on Saturday evening ahead of the summit.
Discussions at the summit will focus on:
- Strengthening Ukraine's position now – including ongoing
military support and increased economic pressure on Russia.
- The need for a strong lasting deal that delivers a
permanent peace in Ukraine and ensures that Ukraine is able to
deter and defend against future Russian attack.
- Next steps on planning for strong security guarantees.
Following the announcement earlier this week that the UK will
spend 2.5% of its GDP on defence by 2027, the Prime Minister will
be clear on the need for Europe to play its part on defence and
step up for the good of collective security.
The UK has already been clear it is willing to support Ukraine's
future security with troops on the ground.
Prime Minister said:
“Three years on from Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are
at a turning point. Today I will reaffirm my unwavering support
for Ukraine and double down on my commitment to provide capacity,
training and aid to Ukraine, putting it in the strongest possible
position.
“In partnership with our allies, we must intensify our
preparations for the European element of security guarantees
alongside continued discussions with the United States.
“We have an opportunity to come together to ensure a just and
lasting peace in Ukraine that secures their sovereignty and
security.
“Now is the time for us to unite in order to guarantee the best
outcome for Ukraine, protect European security, and secure our
collective future.”
