Starmer hopes for a ceasefire in Ukraine by summer.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed hope for a possible announcement of a long-term ceasefire in Ukraine by the beginning of summer 2025. He emphasized that this should happen on terms acceptable to all parties, including Ukraine. Starmer spoke about this in his interview with The Telegraph.

'This must be a ceasefire on terms that all parties, including Ukraine, can accept, and it must be a long-term ceasefire,'

The British Prime Minister expressed outrage over temporary agreements, as he believes they could create an opportunity for Russia to return in the future. Starmer stated that Russia has done this before and there is no doubt that they will do it again.

'What I don’t want to see is a temporary ceasefire, because I am convinced, as much as it is possible, that this simply leaves Russia the opportunity and means to return again in the future. They have done this before, and I have no doubt they will do it again.'

Starmer also called for security guarantees from the USA for British and other Western forces that will be stationed in Ukraine to monitor the peace process. He emphasized that it is important to allow Ukraine to independently decide on the issues of the peace process, as this is necessary for Ukrainian agency.

'We are in an intensive stage of negotiations. Ultimately, I always keep in mind that it is Ukraine that must decide these issues - it is not for others to decide on behalf of Ukraine.'

Moreover, Starmer stressed that Russia must sit at the negotiating table for an unconditional ceasefire, but this must be a decision from Ukraine. The UK Prime Minister stated that he does not have the right to make decisions regarding the recognition of Crimea as Russian and that this issue is subject to discussion. The main content of Keir Starmer's interview revolves around his hope for a long-term ceasefire in Ukraine by the beginning of summer 2025 and a call for Russia to come to the negotiating table. The British Prime Minister also emphasizes the importance of allowing Ukraine to independently decide on peace process issues.