On March 15, 2025, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer opened a significant virtual summit from London, gathering representatives from approximately 25 nations to address the on-going conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Starmer emphasized the urgent need for negotiations, stating, "Vladimir Putin will have to come to the table sooner or later." He stressed the necessity of stopping violence, making it clear to Putin, "If he really wants peace, it's very simple: he must stop his barbaric attacks against Ukraine and accept a ceasefire."
This summit included participation from several European countries, NATO, the European Commission, Canada, and Australia, aiming to establish the foundation for what they termed as "a just and lasting peace". The recent actions of the Russian military, particularly its territorial gains during the last days, were also under scrutiny during the discussions.
During remarks at the summit, Starmer pointedly discussed the situation surrounding the Kursk region, where the Russian army recently claimed to have retaken control of the villages of Zaolechenka and Roubanchtchina, which had been occupied by Ukrainian forces since the summer of 2024. His comments were underscored by the realities on the ground as both Ukraine and Russia reported shooting down significant numbers of drones belonging to one another. On the same night, Ukraine reported neutralizing 130 Russian drones, whereas Russia claimed to have intercepted 126 Ukrainian drones, predominantly over the Volgograd and Voronezh regions. This series of aerial engagements highlights the intense tactical battle still being waged.
Starmer was not alone in voicing concern over Russia’s actions. French President Emmanuel Macron participated via video link, urging Putin to cease hostilities and adhere to the proposed ceasefire, characterizing the negotiations as necessary steps to end the Russian aggression. Macron insisted, "The aggression against Ukraine must cease now," reinforcing the push for unified support from international allies to confront the Kremlin.
Simultaneously, the Russian President sought to garner attention by calling on Ukrainian soldiers to surrender, promising, "If they surrender, they will be guaranteed their lives and treatment under the norms of international law." This assertion came after Donald Trump, former President of the United States, reportedly urged Putin to act humanely toward the encircled Ukrainian forces, which has fueled debates on the veracity of Russia's claims of surrounding Ukrainian troops.
Despite the claims by the Kremlin, President Zelensky outright denied any encirclement of Ukrainian forces, asserting, "Our troops continue to hold back Russian and North Korean groups," emphasizing the resilience of Ukrainian defenders amid the conflict.
The summit’s discussions centered around forming coalitions willing to monitor any ceasefire once established and discussing potential troop deployments as part of the peacekeeping effort if necessary, with Turkey stating its readiness to contribute forces to this end. The goal is clear: to deter any future Russian aggression should negotiations yield successful outcomes.
Starmer conveyed confidence amid the stringent geopolitical tensions stating, "If Russia sits down at the negotiating table, we must be ready to monitor the ceasefire... if Moscow refuses, we must increase economic pressure on Russia to end this war." His comments reflect international consensus to leverage collective influence against the stalemate perpetuated by the Kremlin.
With continuing military actions, including Russia's advance claims and Ukraine's defiance, the path to peace appears fraught with obstacles. The virtual summit's objective goes beyond mere discussions; leaders are tasked to translate these negotiations and pledges of support and solidarity not only to bring about immediate cessation hostilities but also aim for structural and sustainable peace for the future.
Leaders across the board conveyed mixed emotions, with some adopting cautiously optimistic tones, alongside palpable urgency among others. The emphasis on collaboration and cohesive strategy is imperative if there is to be any hope of bridging the widening gulf created by years of conflict.
While the stakes continue to rise along the frontline of combat, political maneuverings are underway to create the momentum for what many hope will be fruitful negotiations. The next steps hinge significantly on the willingness of the involved parties to engage earnestly with the prospects of peaceful resolutions.
Starmer concluded the summit strategically, reminding everyone, "We cannot simply wait... we must continue to push and prepare for peace, one which must be just and durable". The thread of negotiations lies at the heart of slowing down violence, which continues to have devastating effects across Ukraine and beyond. The international community stands poised to act, demonstrating collective resolve to seek peace where it may seem most elusive.