Ukraine’s president arrived in London Sunday for high-level discussions with European leaders about continued support for his country and strategies to end the ongoing conflict.
Volodymyr Zelenskiy met with Britain’s Keir Starmer at Downing Street, joined by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for the June 7 talks.
“The main focus is our defence in the war, greater cooperation for the security of all of Europe in the area of air defence, and our shared view of diplomatic prospects,” Zelenskiy wrote on X upon his arrival in Britain.
“Europe must be part of the negotiations and must be strong.”
Starmer greeted Macron and Merz at Number 10’s entrance before the Ukrainian leader’s arrival. The three nations form an informal security partnership known as the E3, which has emerged as a key supporter of Ukraine internationally.
Speaking Friday, Macron indicated Europeans could assist both Ukraine and Russia in developing a ceasefire and peace framework.
However, each side continues to blame the other for unwillingness to make concessions.
The Ukrainian president released a public letter Thursday suggesting direct negotiations with Vladimir Putin to resolve the conflict, which has entered its fifth year, but the Russian leader rejected the proposal.
In his correspondence, Zelenskiy claimed Russians had become weary of Ukrainian missile and drone strikes, economic inflation and fuel supply issues, making them receptive to peace.
Putin dismissed the proposal as insincere and said he saw no value in meeting currently, emphasizing the need for a “long term” solution.
During Thursday discussions with international journalists, the Russian leader maintained his firm position on the conflict while suggesting U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace proposals might halt the fighting if Kyiv showed willingness to compromise.
