Tensions have emerged in
Keir Starmer
The “coalition of the willing” regarding Ukraine remains intact even after what seems to be progress with the United States.
The Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, is reportedly set to skip discussions scheduled for Saturday by Sir Keir regarding the enforcement of any potential peace agreement.
Russia
.
Approximately 30 nations are anticipated to join the online talks.
However, La Repubblica reports that Ms. Meloni will not take part in this and is ‘keeping her distance’ from the French-British proposals to deploy troops on the ground.
She apparently thinks that Sir Keir and
Emmanuel Macron
‘re hurrying forward’ by assembling a military force.
Rather than doing so, Ms. Meloni — who has portrayed herself as a link between Europe and Washington — has suggested expanding
Nato
‘collective defense under Article 5 to Ukraine, even without official membership.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto is anticipated to present his case at an additional summit with colleagues – including the UK’s John Healey – in Paris later today.
Sir Keir welcomed Ukraine’s support for the ceasefire proposals as a ‘significant development’ late last night.
The Prime Minister teamed up with the United States in exhorting Vladimir
Putin
align with the 30-day truce suggestion presented
Donald Trump
‘s US administration.
The United States has also lifted the suspension of military assistance and intelligence collaboration with Ukraine, after discussions took place between the countries during meetings in Saudi Arabia.
Mr. Healey will meet with officials from France, Germany, Italy, and Poland in Paris to talk about collaborative efforts in strengthening Europe’s defense mechanism against Russia.
It followed a meeting of military leaders in Paris yesterday, focused on establishing pledges from what was termed the ‘ coalition of the willing.’
Before the discussions, Mr. Healey stated that this was a “critical juncture for Ukraine’s future and the security of Europe.”
He stated: “The UK continues to firmly stand behind Ukraine, and we will keep leading with our European allies in pursuit of a fair and enduring peace.”
‘The countries of Europe are intensifying their efforts. Through deeper defense collaboration, increased funding, and strengthening our combined capabilities, we convey a strong message: we remain steadfast in supporting Ukraine and safeguarding our common principles.’
Sir Keir commended Mr Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky yesterday evening for achieving a ‘significant milestone’.
Both the American and Ukrainian delegations have stated that the responsibility now lies with Russia. Sir Keir further noted that Russia needs to consent to a ceasefire and halt the hostilities as well.
He repeated the statements made by Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, who informed journalists in the Gulf nation that he was hoping for President Putin’s swift response.
Meanwhile, US President Mr. Trump stated that American and Russian representatives will convene “on Thursday and Friday” to talk about the agreement, noting, “If we manage to have Russia join us, that would be fantastic. If not, we continue as usual, and many lives could be lost.”
The Ukrainian president, Mr. Zelensky, stated that ‘the decision rests with the United States’ regarding persuading Russia to endorse the proposal. He added that the truce would ‘come into force right away’ should the Kremlin consent.
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