On Saturday, Ukrainian President Zelensky is set to meet with British Prime Minister Johnson following the collapse of talks with US President Trump at the White House, casting a shadow over the ceasefire prospects in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. On Sunday, European leaders will convene in London for a summit to discuss the peace plan for Ukraine.
A spokesperson for Johnson’s office stated, “The Prime Minister and President Zelensky will meet this afternoon at Downing Street.”
During his visit to the US on Friday, Zelensky had a meeting with President Trump at the White House. He had intended to persuade the US not to align with Russian President Putin but a public dispute erupted in the Oval Office, leading Trump to express that he would not support Ukraine unless Zelensky explicitly expressed a desire for peace.
As a result of the disagreement, Trump canceled the signing of a mineral agreement that was planned during Zelensky’s visit. He emphasized that the agreement would bring Ukraine closer to ending its conflict with Russia and would serve as a security “backbone” for Ukraine.
Johnson’s office confirmed that the Prime Minister had a phone call with both Trump and Zelensky on Friday, expressing his continued support for Ukraine. “He remains steadfast in his support for Ukraine and is actively working to find a path towards lasting peace based on sovereignty and security,” the office said. “The Prime Minister looks forward to welcoming international leaders including President Zelensky on Sunday.”
Johnson is scheduled to host a European leaders’ summit in London on Sunday, with over a dozen European and EU leaders expected to attend. The summit aims to drive action on issues related to peace and security in Ukraine.
According to reports from the Associated Press, a senior Ukrainian official revealed that post his departure from the White House, Zelensky engaged in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and President of the European Council Antonio Costa, seeking their support for Ukraine.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni proposed an “immediate summit” between the US and European allies to “honestly discuss how we plan to tackle today’s great challenges, starting with Ukraine.” She urged the West to maintain unity.