Keir Starmer and his European allies have firmly rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal to lift sanctions in exchange for peace talks with Ukraine. Speaking in Paris, Starmer made it clear that this was not the time for easing pressure on Russia, despite suggestions from Trump’s administration.
💬 “Now is Not the Time for Lifting Sanctions”
Starmer, speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, called Putin’s offer a “game” and “filibustering.” He emphasised that now, more than ever, the UK and its allies needed to tighten sanctions against Russia. He said, “What we discussed is how we can increase sanctions to support the US initiative, to bring Russia to the table through further pressure.”
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this stance, saying sanctions should remain until peace is “clearly established.” Similarly, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz warned that ending sanctions would be a “serious mistake” and stated, “It makes no sense to end sanctions until peace has actually been achieved.”
💥 Trump’s Shift on Sanctions
While the US has said it will “evaluate” Russia’s request, the move from Trump’s administration is a significant shift. Just weeks ago, the Trump administration used the threat of sanctions to bring Russia to the negotiating table. Now, the tone seems to have softened, with Trump officials willing to discuss terms for lifting sanctions on Russian banks and exports.
🌍 The “Coalition of the Willing” Stands Firm
Starmer’s “coalition of the willing,” which includes over 30 nations, is growing stronger and broader than ever before, according to the Labour leader. The coalition is focused on supporting Ukraine and preventing Russia from gaining any advantage in negotiations.
In a move to further secure Ukraine’s defence, military chiefs from the UK, France, and Germany are set to meet with allies to discuss how they could contribute to peacekeeping efforts, including potentially deploying UK troops to deter Russian aggression.
🚨 Dismissing Russia’s Warnings
Starmer also responded to Russia’s warnings about a direct conflict with NATO. He dismissed their threats, saying, “In terms of what Russia says, we know what Russia wants – a defenceless Ukraine.” He stressed that this position was not going to influence the West’s response.
As tensions rise, European leaders remain united in their stance: lifting sanctions is not an option unless peace is fully secured. The next few weeks could be critical in determining whether Putin will get the relief he’s seeking, or if the West will continue to hold firm.
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