UK and France explore post-war support plans for Ukraine
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed support for Ukraine after the end of the war with Russia, according to the "Daily Telegraph".
The British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron met to discuss possible scenarios for supporting Ukraine after the end of the war with Russia. As reported by the "Daily Telegraph," Macron presented his concepts, which he previously discussed with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The leaders' meeting took place at the Chequers residence near London. Spokespersons for Downing Street and the Élysée Palace did not deny that Macron presented his ideas to Starmer. European leaders are contemplating a peace plan announced by US President-elect Donald Trump.
Air shield in Poland?
Macron proposed three scenarios for supporting Ukraine. The first involves protecting the line of demarcation with Russia by Western forces. The second scenario envisages the defence of Kyiv by Western forces, which would allow Ukraine to secure its border with Russia. The third scenario involves creating an "air shield" in Poland.
The "Daily Telegraph" reports that Starmer has not yet supported Macron's plans. Economic and strategic factors may influence the decision. The United Kingdom is struggling with a budget deficit, and deploying troops in Ukraine would be costly.
On Thursday, Starmer made an unannounced visit to Ukraine. This is his first trip to the country since taking office in July of last year. The British Prime Minister visited Kyiv in 2023 when he was the leader of the opposition and, as head of government, met with Zelensky twice.
Historic agreement
In the afternoon, Ukrainian media reported that Ukraine and the United Kingdom signed a historic agreement on a 100-year partnership to deepen ties in security and strengthen partnership for future generations.
