Starmer to Host European Leaders Amid Shift in Security Dynamics

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to host a critical summit on Sunday with leaders from Italy, Germany, Poland, and potentially Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, focusing on their collective response to Donald Trump’s recent call for peace in Ukraine. The U.S. president’s insistence on increased defense spending and a redefined approach to European security has caught many leaders off guard, prompting a reevaluation of their strategies.

The meeting follows Starmer’s high-stakes discussions with Trump in Washington on Thursday, where he aims to emphasize the importance of bolstering the defense budget to maintain strong ties between the UK and the U.S. “I accept that European allies, including the UK, must do more—this includes enhancing our capabilities, coordination, and spending,” Starmer stated as he departed for Washington. He underscored the necessity for better coordination in supporting Ukraine, citing lessons learned from the ongoing conflict.

The London summit will explore strategies for moving forward as allies in light of the current situation, although Starmer’s spokesman noted it was premature to confirm the attendance of all invited leaders.

Earlier this month, European leaders, including Starmer, convened in Paris to discuss increased defense budgets, though opinions diverged on the potential deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine. Zelenskiy indicated he would join the London meeting if his visit to Washington to meet Trump proceeds as planned. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk is expected to attend, alongside NATO Chief Mark Rutte, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Trump has initiated discussions with Russia regarding a potential peace agreement and has openly criticized Zelenskiy, prompting European leaders to intensify diplomatic efforts to present a united front in support of Ukraine.