British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has taken a firm stance on the Ukraine war, declaring that Russian President Vladimir Putin is the clear aggressor in the conflict, The Times Post sister publication, SurgeZirc UK has reported.
His comments come just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump thanked Putin for his efforts to negotiate peace.
Speaking to ITV on Thursday, Starmer dismissed any notion of moral ambiguity in the war. “Putin is the aggressor—Putin’s in breach of the UN Charter, in my view.
“This conflict could be ended tomorrow if Putin withdrew his troops,” he stated. His remarks sharply contrast with Trump’s more sympathetic tone towards the Russian leader.
Trump’s Controversial Take on Ukraine’s Role in the War
Trump’s latest statements on the war have sparked backlash, as he appeared to suggest that Ukraine chose to engage in the conflict rather than being invaded.
“Their people are being killed, and I think they have to make peace. I said that was not a good war to go into, and I think they have to make peace,” Trump said.
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His comments follow a 90-minute phone call with Putin, during which they agreed to launch immediate peace talks—without direct input from Ukraine.
Starmer Insists Ukraine Must Lead Peace Talks
Starmer made it clear that Ukraine must not be sidelined in any negotiations to end the war.
“Ukrainians want peace. Those who have had to flee the country want to return. But this has to be led by Ukraine. There can be no negotiations about Ukraine that do not involve Ukraine,” he emphasized.
The prime minister also reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, stating that the UK will “play its part” in future security guarantees.
However, he stressed that American backing is crucial, despite U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s position that European nations should be responsible for enforcing any ceasefire agreement.
The Times Post and SurgeZirc UK are part of the SurgeZirc Media global network.
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