UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Criticizes Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Commitments in Ukraine Peace Negotiations, Labeling Them as Deceptive and Unreliable

 British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has expressed deep skepticism regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s commitments in the ongoing Ukraine peace negotiations, asserting that Putin’s promises are untrustworthy and lack substance. ​

Speaking ahead of a summit in Paris with key European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Starmer emphasized that Russia’s actions have consistently contradicted its stated intentions in the peace talks. 

He accused Putin of engaging in deceptive tactics, particularly highlighting Russia’s manipulation of the agreed naval ceasefire in the Black Sea. Starmer stated, “Unlike President Zelensky, Putin has shown he’s not a serious player in these peace talks. Playing games with the agreed naval ceasefire in the Black Sea despite good faith participation from all sides—all while continuing to inflict devastating attacks on the Ukrainian people. His promises are hollow.”

The Prime Minister underscored the importance of maintaining and potentially increasing sanctions against Russia to pressure Moscow into genuine negotiations. He highlighted that the coalition of willing nations is committed to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and that any easing of sanctions at this juncture would be premature and counterproductive. ​

Starmer’s remarks come amid reports that Russia has been delaying responses to ceasefire proposals while continuing its military operations in Ukraine. European leaders at the Paris summit reiterated that it is not the time to lift sanctions against Russia, emphasizing Moscow’s delay tactics in responding to ceasefire initiatives. 

The UK, along with its European allies, remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine. Starmer announced plans to increase military aid to Kyiv and proposed the establishment of a “reassurance force” to deter further Russian aggression. This initiative aligns with discussions among European leaders to provide strategic support to Ukraine without direct engagement with Russian forces. ​

In conclusion, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s condemnation of President Putin’s actions reflects a broader frustration among Western leaders regarding Russia’s approach to the peace negotiations. The UK, in coordination with its allies, is committed to holding Russia accountable and ensuring that any peace agreement is based on genuine commitments and actions, rather than empty promises.