### Starmer Unveils Coalition Initiative to Ensure Peace in Ukraine

Following a summit of European leaders, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed a comprehensive four-point plan designed to fortify Ukraine against Russian aggression, enhancing military support while emphasizing the importance of unity and international cooperation.

In a pivotal moment at a summit attended by 18 European leaders, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer articulated a bold strategy to bolster Ukraine's defenses and pave the way for potential peace negotiations with Russia. This initiative, dubbed the "coalition of the willing," aims to consolidate military and economic aid from the UK, France, and allied nations, while also seeking to engage the United States in a cooperative effort.

Starmer underscored the urgency of the situation, stating, "We are at a crossroads in history today." This declaration followed a significant address by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed gratitude for the support shown by European nations during the summit. Zelensky declared this display of unity as "a level of European cooperation not seen for a long time."

The announcement comes in the wake of contentious discussions between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump regarding Ukraine's future engagement. Starmer emphasized that any viable peace agreement must prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, ensuring it participates directly in the peace talks. His four-point plan includes continued military support for Ukraine, increasing sanctions on Russia, enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities, and solidifying a coalition of nations that will uphold any eventual peace agreement.

As a tangible commitment, Starmer unveiled an additional £1.6 billion ($2 billion) in UK export finance aimed at procuring over 5,000 air defense missiles, supplementing a previous £2.2 billion military aid package backed by Russian asset revenues. Highlighting the need for strength in negotiations, Starmer noted, "We cannot accept a weak deal which Russia can breach with ease."

While the specifics of coalition collaboration remain to be clarified, Starmer assured that nations participating would prioritize urgent planning. He acknowledged the crucial role of the US in supporting these efforts but called for a collective European responsibility, stating, "Europe must do the heavy lifting."

The summit comprised leaders from multiple countries, including France, Poland, and Turkey, illustrating a broad European commitment to Ukraine's defense. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored an urgent need for rearmament across Europe, echoed by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's call for enhanced support for Ukraine’s enduring conflict.

In a personal engagement following the summit, Zelensky met with King Charles III, moving past the diplomatic exchanges to foster new alliances, including potential agreements on Ukraine's mineral reserves with the US. However, discussions on these mineral deals are contingent upon establishing a peace agreement with Russia, an essential requirement emphasized by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

The summit marks a culmination of a week filled with intense diplomatic activity involving prominent leaders, culminating in Zelensky facing off against Trump and US Vice President JD Vance, underscoring the challenging dynamics of international negotiations regarding peace in Ukraine.

This gathering not only reflects a unified European stance but also outlines a pragmatic approach towards ensuring lasting peace and security in Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.