On Saturday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warmly welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at 10 Downing Street. Zelensky, having had a sharp exchange with US President Donald Trump at the White House, arrived in London to attend a summit with leaders from 12 European countries on Sunday. As Zelensky arrived at Downing Street on Saturday for discussions with Prime Minister Starmer, the crowd cheered enthusiastically. Starmer greeted Zelensky warmly outside his office and embraced him.
Keir Starmer told Volodymyr Zelensky, 'I hope you heard the cheers from the people on the street. These are the people of the United Kingdom showing their strong support for you... and the United Kingdom is resolutely standing with you and Ukraine.' Starmer assured Zelensky of the UK's full support for Ukraine and reiterated, 'We will always stand with you and Ukraine.'
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Europe United in Support of Ukraine
After meeting with Donald Trump, European leaders declared their support for Ukraine on social media. This has highlighted the differences between the US and Europe regarding the ongoing three-year conflict between Ukraine and Russia. On Friday, Starmer spoke with both Trump and Zelensky, while French President Emmanuel Macron also met with the US President in Washington this week. Zelensky is also scheduled to meet King Charles on Sunday. The UK has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine, and previously, King Charles praised the resilience and courage of the Ukrainian people amidst unprovoked Russian attacks, reiterating his support for President Zelensky.
Why Did Trump and Zelensky Clash?
It’s worth noting that President Zelensky had a heated discourse with Trump during a press conference in the Oval Office on March 1. Trump stressed that the Ukrainian President should negotiate a ceasefire with Russia. However, Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine will not accept a ceasefire with Russia, given President Putin's history of violating such agreements. Trump's persistence in pressing for a compromise led to frustration, leading him to label Zelensky as a fool. Trump accused Zelensky of gambling with a third world war.
Also Read: 'Zelensky Fought Like a Lion', Says Ukrainian Public on Clash with Trump, Yet Fears Persist
Trump argued that the Ukrainian President does not appreciate the support from the US that has helped his country to withstand Russian aggression for three years. In the Oval Office, Trump dramatically stated, 'President Zelensky, you are playing with millions of lives. Your country is in danger, but you don’t understand. You will eventually have to compromise with Russia.' Zelensky replied, 'We have no need for a ceasefire.' Trump further remarked that Zelensky disrespected America in the Oval Office and that he could return to the White House only when he is ready to pursue peace.
