The fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance, even without Poland. Starmer: negotiations at a 'critical stage'

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz began talks in London on Monday. The head of the British government expressed his belief that peace negotiations to end the war between Russia and Ukraine were at a “critical stage.”

In response to Starmer's words, Zelensky thanked the British Prime Minister for organizing the meeting at Downing Street. In his opinion, this is an important moment to discuss all “sensitive” issues.

– The thing that is very important today (…) is the unity of Europe, Ukraine and the USA – said the Ukrainian leader, adding that there are issues “that we cannot handle without the Americans (…) and that we cannot handle without Europe.”

– We all support Ukraine and (the pursuit of) peace, Macron said, emphasizing that Kiev's partner countries “have many cards in their hands.” – The Russian economy is starting to suffer, especially after our recent sanctions – he said.

The French president also mentioned the need to find a way to bring Europe and the United States together in order to agree on a further path in the peace talks.

In Merz's opinion, the coming days “may be decisive (…) for all of us” regarding Ukraine. He assured that both Germany, Great Britain and France “continue to strongly support Ukraine.” – The fate of this country is the fate of Europe – he added.

The German Chancellor expressed “skepticism” about “some details contained in the (peace plan) documents of the American side.” He added that this would be one of the topics discussed during the discussion in London.

After a brief meeting with the media, the leaders continue their talks behind closed doors.

From London Marta Zabłocka (PAP)

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