PRIME MINISTER’S STATEMENT FOLLOWING LEADERS’ MEETING
This morning I convened the largest, strongest group of countries yet behind a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Now a huge amount has happened since I brought leaders together at Lancaster House here in London, just two weeks ago.
President Zelenskyy has shown once again, and beyond any doubt, that Ukraine is the party of peace. Volodymyr has committed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire.
But Putin is trying to delay – saying there must be a painstaking study before a ceasefire can take place.
Well, the world needs action. Not a study, not empty words and conditions.So my message is very clear. Sooner or later, Putin will have to come to the table.
So, this is the moment, let the guns fall silent, let the barbaric attacks on Ukraine, once and for all, stop and agree to a ceasefire now.
And let’s be clear why this is so important – Russia’s appetite for conflict and chaos undermines our security back here at home.
It drives up the cost of living. It drives up energy costs.
So this matters deeply to the United Kingdom.
That is why now is the time to engage in discussions on a mechanism to manage and monitor a full ceasefire and agree to serious negotiations towards not just a pause but a lasting peace, backed by strong security arrangements through our Coalition of the Willing.
And we won’t sit back and wait for Putin to act.
Instead we will keep pushing forward.
So the group I convened today is more important than ever.
It brings together partners from across Europe as well as Canada, Australia and New Zealand, with backing from others too – including Japan.
We agreed we will keep increasing the pressure on Russia, keep the military aid flowing to Ukraine and keep tightening the restrictions on Russia’s economy to weaken Putin’s war machine and bring him to the table.
And we agreed to accelerate our practical work to support a potential deal.
So we will now move into an operational phase.
Our militaries will meet on Thursday this week here in the UK to put strong and robust plans in place to swing in behind a peace deal and guarantee Ukraine’s future security.
President Trump has offered Putin the way forward to a lasting peace. Now we must make this a reality.
So this is the moment to keep driving towards the outcome we want to see, to end the killing. A just and lasting peace in Ukraine and lasting security for all of us.
Prime Minister Starmer’s statement to the House of Commons: 3 March 2025
Mr. Speaker
Less than a week since I called on this House to show the courage of our predecessors we see clearly before us – the test of our times. A crossroads in our history.
So with permission I will update the House on my efforts to secure a strong, just and lasting peace following Russia’s vile invasion of Ukraine.
Mr. Speaker – it begins in this House where on Tuesday, I announced the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.
A recognition of the fact that once again, we live in an era where peace in Europe depends upon strength and deterrence.
But also – a rediscovery of the old post-war argument long-held on these benches that economic security is national security.
Because Mr. Speaker, the demands we now have to make of Britain must come alongside a new foundation of security for working people.
The tough choices we made last week, they are not done. We must use the process of getting to 3% of our national income spent on defence to fundamentally rebuild British industry.
Use our investment in military spending to create new jobs and apprenticeships in every part of our country.
And that’s why, last night, I announced a deal that perfectly symbolises this new era.
A partnership with Ukraine that allows them to use £1.6 billion of UK Export Finance to buy 5,000 air defence missiles, manufactured in Belfast. That means UK jobs, UK skills, UK finance , pulling together for our national interest.
Putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position for peace and protecting innocent civilians from the terror of Russian drones.
Mr. Speaker, my efforts continued on Thursday when I met President Trump in the White House to strengthen our relationship with America.
Now, what happened in his subsequent meeting with President Zelenskyy is something nobody in this House wants to see.
But I do want to be crystal clear: we must strengthen our relationship with America for our security, for our technology, for our trade and investment. They are and always will be – indispensable.
And we will never choose between either side of the Atlantic. In fact, Mr. Speaker, if anything, the past week has shown that that idea to be totally unserious. Because while some people may enjoy the simplicity of taking a side, this week has shown with total clarity that the US is vital in securing the peace we all want to see in Ukraine.
So I welcome the opportunity for a new economic deal with the US, confirmed by the President last week, because it is an opportunity I am determined to pursue.
I welcome the positive discussions we had on European security, including his clear support for Article 5 of NATO. I welcome the understanding, from our dialogue that our two nations will work together on security arrangements for a lasting peace in Ukraine.
And I also welcome the President’s continued commitment to that peace which nobody in this House should doubt for a second – is sincere.
Mr. Speaker, I now turn to events this weekend and the moving scenes that greeted President Zelenskyy as he arrived in London on Saturday.
Mr. Speaker I saw for myself that he was taken aback when the crowd in Whitehall cheered at the top of their voices, and they were speaking for the whole of our country.
A reminder – that this Government, this House and this nation stand in unwavering support behind him and the people of Ukraine.
Mr. Speaker, we resolved together to move forward the strong cause of just and lasting peace for Ukraine.
And then on Sunday I hosted European leaders from across our continent, equally committed to this cause including President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, the leaders of NATO, the European Commission and Council and the Prime Minister of Canada, a vital ally of this country, the Commonwealth and Ukraine responsible for training over 40,000 Ukrainian troops.
I also had the privilege beforehand of speaking online to the leaders of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia – each of whom, as close as they are to the frontline with Russia, stressed the urgency of the moment.
And Mr. Speaker, it was a productive summit. Together, we agreed a clear strategy. That the United Kingdom, France and our allies will work closely with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, which we will then discuss directly with the United States.
It is a plan that has four clear principles, which I will now share in full with the House:
First, that we must keep the military aid to Ukraine flowing, keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia. And to that end, alongside our partnership on air defence we are doubling-down on military aid.
Already this year we have taken our support to record levels but on Saturday we also agreed a new £2.2 billion loan for Ukraine backed, not by the British taxpayer but by the profits from frozen Russian assets.
Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must guarantee the sovereignty and security of Ukraine. And that Ukraine must be at the table when negotiating their future. That is absolutely vital.
Third, we agreed that in the event of a peace deal we will continue to boost Ukraine’s defences and Ukraine’s deterrence.
And finally, fourth.we agreed to develop a “coalition of the willing” ready to defend a deal in Ukraine and guarantee the peace.
After all, the Ukrainian position is completely understandable. For them, the war did not begin three years ago. That was merely the latest and most brutal escalation.
They have signed agreements with Putin, before. They have experienced the nature of his diplomacy and the calibre of his word.
We can’t accept a weak deal like Minsk again, No, we must proceed with strength and that does now require – urgently – a coalition of the willing.
Mr. Speaker – we agreed on Sunday that those willing to play a role in this will intensify planning now. And as this House would expect Britain will play a leading role. With, if necessary and together with others, boots on the ground and planes in the air.
Mr. Speaker, it is right that Europe do the heavy lifting to support peace on our continent. But to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing.
I want to assure the House I take none of this lightly. I visited British troops in Estonia and no aspect of my role weighs more heavily than the deployment of British troops in the service of the defence and security in Europe.
And yet I do feel very strongly that the future of Ukraine is vital for our national security.
Russia is a menace in our waters and skies, They have launched cyber-attacks on our NHS, assassination attempts in our streets.
In this House, we stand by Ukraine because it is the right thing to do but we also stand by them because it is in our interest to do so. Because if we do not achieve a lasting peace then the instability and insecurity that has hit the living standards of working people in Britain that will only get worse.
And Putin’s appetite for conflict and chaos that will only grow.
So a strong peace, a just peace, a lasting peace, that has now to be our goal.
It is vital, it is in our interest and its pursuit – Britain will lead from the front.
For the security of our continent, the security of our country and the security of the British people we must now win the peace.
And I commend this statement to the House.
UPDATE
Stakes have been raised since Starmer’s announcement to Westminster yesterday. A spokesman for the Trump government announced overnight that the USA is is to ‘pause’ military aid to Ukraine.
Trump’s USA is by far the biggest contributor to Ukraine’s military effort and this latest statement of American intent, if carried out, deals a grevious blow to Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian invaders.
Europe’s ‘coalition of the willing’ may have to come up with a revised plan – and quickly.
The Prime Minister’s remarks at yesterday’s International Leaders summit press conference in London:
Good afternoon. the first priority of this government – of any government – is the security and safety of the British people to defend the national interest, particularly in these volatile times.
That’s why, last week I announced the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.
That’s also why I met President Trump last week to strengthen our relationship with America – as indispensable partners in defence and security.
And it’s why, this weekend, I have been hosting European leaders here in London to work together for the security of the United Kingdom, Ukraine and Europe as a whole.
Through my discussions over recent days we have agreed that the UK, France and others will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, then we’ll discuss that plan with the United States and take it forward together.
The purpose of today’s meeting was to unite our partners around this effort to strengthen Ukraine and to support a just and enduring peace for the good of all of us.
Our starting point must be to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position now so that they can negotiate from a position of strength.
And we are doubling down in our support.
Yesterday evening the UK signed a £2.2 billion loan to provide more military aid to Ukraine – backed, not by the British taxpayer, but by the profits from frozen Russian assets.
And today, I am announcing a new deal which allows Ukraine to use £1.6 billion of UK Export Finance to buy more than 5,000 air defence missiles which will be made in Belfast, creating jobs in our brilliant defence sector.
This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now and strengthening Ukraine in securing the peace, when it comes.
Because we have to learn from the mistakes of the past. We cannot accept a weak deal like Minsk, which Russia can breach with ease. Instead, any deal must be backed by strength.
Every nation must contribute to that in the best way that it can. Bringing different capabilities and support to the table but all taking responsibility to act, all stepping up to their own share of the burden.
So we agreed some important steps today.
First, we will keep the military aid flowing and keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia to strengthen Ukraine now.
Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. And Ukraine must be at the table.
Third, in the event of a peace deal, we will keep boosting Ukraine’s own defensive capabilities to deter any future invasion.
Fourth, we will go further to develop a “coalition of the willing” to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace.
Not every nation will feel able to contribute. But that can’t mean we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now – with real urgency.
The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground, and planes in the air, together with others.
Europe must do the heavy lifting but to support peace on our continent. And to succeed, this effort must have strong US backing.
We’re working with the US on this point, after my meeting with President Trump last week. And let me be clear – we agree with the President on the urgent need for a durable peace. Now we need to deliver, together.
Finally, we agreed that leaders will meet again very soon to keep the pace behind these actions and to keep working towards this shared plan.
We are at a crossroads in history today. This is not a moment for more talk – it is time to act. Time to step up and lead and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace.
Thank you.
The Prime Minister will give more details to parliament this afternoon.
The Prime Minister will intensify his efforts in pursuit of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine by convening international leaders at a summit in London today
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will intensify his efforts in pursuit of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine by convening international leaders at a summit in London today.
The Prime Minister has this weekend reiterated his unwavering support for Ukraine and is determined to find a way forward that brings an end to Russia’s illegal war and guarantees Ukraine a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security.
The summit rounds off a week of intense diplomacy for the Prime Minister, which has seen him raise UK defence spending and travel to Washington D.C. for productive talks with President Trump in support of UK and European security. The Prime Minister spoke again with both President Trump and President Zelenskyy on Friday evening following the events of yesterday at the Presidents’ meeting in Washington D.C.
The Prime Minister will welcome Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Downing Street this morning, before being joined at the summit in central London by the leaders of Ukraine, France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Romania. The Turkish Foreign Minister, NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of the European Commission and European Council will also attend.
The Prime Minister has been clear that there can be no negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine, a determination he reiterated when he warmly welcomed President Zelenskyy to Downing Street on Saturday evening ahead of the summit.
Discussions at the summit will focus on:
Strengthening Ukraine’s position now – including ongoing military support and increased economic pressure on Russia.
The need for a strong lasting deal that delivers a permanent peace in Ukraine and ensures that Ukraine is able to deter and defend against future Russian attack.
Next steps on planning for strong security guarantees.
Following the announcement earlier this week that the UK will spend 2.5% of its GDP on defence by 2027, the Prime Minister will be clear on the need for Europe to play its part on defence and step up for the good of collective security.
The UK has already been clear it is willing to support Ukraine’s future security with troops on the ground.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Three years on from Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point.
“Today I will reaffirm my unwavering support for Ukraine and double down on my commitment to provide capacity, training and aid to Ukraine, putting it in the strongest possible position.
“In partnership with our allies, we must intensify our preparations for the European element of security guarantees, alongside continued discussions with the United States.
“We have an opportunity to come together to ensure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine that secures their sovereignty and security.
“Now is the time for us to unite in order to guarantee the best outcome for Ukraine, protect European security, and secure our collective future.”
UK reinforces support for Ukraine with £2.26 billion loan
The £2.26 billion loan will bolster Ukrainian military capability, and will be paid back using profits generated on sanctioned Russian sovereign assets.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Ukrainian Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko signed the formal loan agreement yesterday (Saturday 1 March), with the first tranche of funding expected to reach Ukraine later next week.
The loan demonstrates the UK’s commitment to Ukrainian defence. A strong Ukraine is vital to UK national security – the first duty of any government and central to the Plan for Change.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Ukraine’s Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko have signed the UK-Ukraine Bilateral agreement.
This agreement will deliver £2.26 billion in funding to Ukraine, which will be paid back using the extraordinary profits generated on sanctioned Russian sovereign assets held in the EU.
This is the UK’s contribution to the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans to Ukraine scheme, through which G7 countries will collectively provide $50 billion to support Ukraine.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:“A safe and secure Ukraine is a safe and secure United Kingdom. This funding will bolster Ukraine’s armed forces and will put Ukraine in the strongest possible position at a critical juncture in the war.
“It comes as we have increased our defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, which will deliver the stability required to keep us safe and underpin economic growth.”
The loan will be fully earmarked for military procurement to bolster Ukraine’s defences, with the first tranche of funding expected to be disbursed to Ukraine next week.
Russia’s obligation under international law to pay for the damage it has caused to Ukraine is clear and this G7 agreement, backed by the profits generated on sanctioned Russian sovereign assets, is an important step to ensuring this happens.
The funding will be delivered in three equal annual payments of £752m.
The announcement of the loan agreement is on top of the £3 billion a year commitment by the UK to provide military aid for Ukraine. The Prime Minister has been clear that a strong Ukraine is vital to UK national security.
This loan follows the announcement by the Prime Minister committing the Government to increase UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with an ambition to spend 3% of GDP on defence in the next parliament as economic and fiscal conditions allow.
This represents the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, safeguarding our collective security and funding the capabilities, technology and industrial capacity needed to keep the UK and our allies safe for generations to come.
As set out in the Plan for Change, national security is the first duty of the government, and investment in defence will protect UK citizens from threats at home while also creating a secure and stable environment for economic growth.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s opening remarks at the White House press conference
Thank you very much, Mr President. Thank you for your hospitality, thank you for your leadership. This has been a very good and very productive visit.
And with your family roots in Scotland, and your close bond with His Majesty the King, it’s good to know that the United Kingdom has a true friend in the Oval Office.
And it was so good to see the bust of Winston Churchill back in its rightful place just a moment ago.
But look, in a moment of real danger around the world this relationship matters more than ever. We remain each other’s first partner in defence ready to come to the other’s aid to counter threats, wherever and whenever they may arise.
No two militaries are more intertwined than ours. No two countries have done more together to keep people safe.
And in a few weeks’ time we’ll mark VE Day The 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe. Britain and America fought side-by-side to make that happen – one of the greatest moments in our history.
We stand side-by-side still, today and we’re focused now on bringing an enduring end to the barbaric war in Ukraine.
Mr President, I welcome your deep, personal commitment to bring peace and stop the killing. You have created a moment of tremendous opportunity to reach an historic peace deal – a deal that would be celebrated in Ukraine and around the world.
That is the prize.
But we have to get it right. There’s a famous slogan in the United Kingdom, from after the Second World War – that is that we have to “win the peace.” And that’s what we must do now.
Because it can’t be a peace that rewards the aggressor. Or that gives succour to regimes like Iran.
We agree – history must be on the side of the peacemaker, not the invader. So the stakes, they could not be higher.
And we’re determined to work together to deliver a good deal. We’ve discussed a plan today to reach a peace that is tough and fair – that Ukraine will help to shape – that is backed by strength – to stop Putin coming back for more.
And I am working closely with other European leaders on this. And I am clear – that the UK is ready to put boots on the ground and planes in the air to support a deal. Working together with our allies, because that is the only way that peace that will last.
Mr President, in this new era, you’re also right that Europe must step up. And let me tell you now – I see the growing threats we face and so the UK is all in.
This year we will be giving more military aid to Ukraine than ever. And just this week I have set out how we are shouldering more of the security burden. We’re already one of the biggest spenders in NATO and now we are going much further, delivering Britain’s biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.
This isn’t just talk – it’s action. Rebalancing the transatlantic alliance, making us all stronger and standing up for our shared values and shared security. As Britain always has.
Now, Mr President, it’s no secret we’re from different political traditions but there is a lot that we have in common. We believe it’s not taking part that counts – what counts is winning. If you don’t win – you don’t deliver.
And we’re determined to deliver for the working people of Britain and America – who want – and deserve – to see their lives improve. So we’re both in a hurry to get things done.
And that’s what the UK and the US do when we work together: we win – and we get things done.
So we’ll do what it takes to keep our people safe. We will also work together to deliver some big economic wins that can benefit us both.
We have $1.5 trillion invested in each other’s economies, creating over 2.5 million jobs across both economies.
Our trading relationship is not just strong – it is fair, balanced and reciprocal.
We’re leaders together in so many areas: Ranked one and two in the world as investment destinations…one and two for universities…One and two for Nobel prizes…One and two in golf, as well – by the way…
And we’re the only two western countries with trillion dollar tech sectors – Leaders in AI and look, we take a similar approach on this issue.
Instead of over-regulating these new technologies we’re seizing the opportunities they offer. So we have decided today to go further to begin work on a new economic deal with advanced technology at its core.
Look – our two nations, together shaped the great technological innovations of the last century. We have a chance now to do the same for the 21st century.
I mean – artificial intelligence could cure cancer that could be a moonshot for our age and that’s how we will keep delivering for our people.
There are so many opportunities.
Keep our nations strong and fulfil the promise of greatness that has always defined this relationship.
Finally, to underline the importance of this bond, it was my privilege and honour to bring a letter with me today – from His Majesty the King.
Not only sending his best wishes, but also inviting the President and the First Lady to make a State Visit to the United Kingdom: an unprecedented second State Visit – this has never happened before.
It’s so incredible it will be historic.
And I’m delighted that I can go back to His Majesty The King and tell him that President Trump has accepted the invitation.
So thank you. Our teams will now work together to set a date.
Mr President, we look forward to welcoming you in the United Kingdom.
Thank you once again.
PM meeting with President Trump
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President of the United States Donald Trump met today in the White House.
The leaders discussed the depth of the special relationship between their two nations and their commitment to shared security and prosperity.
They spoke about the fair, balanced and reciprocal economic relationship that the two countries enjoy. They agreed their teams should work together to deepen this relationship, and to work together to agree a trade deal focused on tech.
On defence and security, they agreed that the strength of the UK and US’s intelligence and defence relationship is unrivalled. The Prime Minister underlined the announcement he made this week to increase defence spending to 2.5%
The leaders agreed that on Ukraine, talks must work towards a lasting peace. The Prime Minister said the UK is ready to play a leadership role on supporting Ukraine’s future security. They discussed their shared commitment to a ‘peace through strength’ approach and that their teams should collaborate on this.
The President accepted an invitation on behalf of His Majesty The King for an unprecedented second State Visit to the United Kingdom.
The Prime Minister will be focused on delivering prosperity and security for the British people, when he meets President Trump today in Washington D.C – but what Mr Trump will be focused on is anyone’s guess
Prosperity and security for working people focus of Prime Minister’s meeting with President Trump.
Special relationship between UK and US critical to deliver growth and security, with further collaboration on AI and tech.
Prime Minister to reiterate shared US-UK commitment to reaching a durable and lasting peace in Ukraine, and the need for Europe to step up to the challenge.
The Prime Minister will be focused on delivering prosperity and security for the British people, when he meets President Trump today (Thursday 27 February) in Washington D.C.
The UK and the US share a unique and historic relationship, based on shared values and a mutual commitment to economic and defence cooperation.
The UK and the US have one of the biggest trading relationships of any two countries in the world, worth around 400 billion dollars and supporting over 2.5 million jobs across both countries.
This visit comes just days after the third anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. The Prime Minister and President Trump share a commitment to delivering lasting peace in Ukraine, and the Prime Minister will reiterate the UK’s commitment to securing a just and enduring peace, bringing an end to Russia’s illegal war.
The Prime Minister will be clear that there can be no negotiations about Ukraine, without Ukraine and will recognise the need for Europe to play its part on global defence and step up for the good of collective European security.
On Tuesday, the Prime Minister announced that defence spending will increase to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027, with an ambition to reach 3% in the next parliament. This will drive economic growth and create jobs across the UK, while bolstering national security and protecting borders.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “The world is becoming ever more dangerous, and it is more important than ever that we are united with our allies.
“A stable economy, secure borders and national security are the foundations of my Plan for Change, and the US-UK relationship is integral to delivering them. These principles will be at the heart of discussions with President Trump today.
“There are huge opportunities for us to deepen our special relationship, deliver growth and security, and improve the lives of working people in both our great nations.”
Both countries are world leaders in AI and advanced technologies, and the Prime Minister will be looking to build on these strong foundations to create jobs and economic growth.
The discussion will have a particular focus on the opportunities that further technology and AI partnerships could deliver. These include a proposal of high-ambition shared moonshot missions across top technologies including quantum and AI, and a deeper partnership on space.
The US and UK are the only two allied countries with trillion-dollar technology eco-systems, and the Prime Minister will make the case for further integration between the two countries’ tech sectors to make them the most efficient, ambitious technology sectors in the world.
In October, US tech firms announced a £6.3 billion package of investment to support UK data centres – a central pillar of the government’s plan to ramp up the country’s AI capacity. In January a further £12 billion investment from Vantage Data Centers created over 11,500 jobs as the government published its AI Opportunities Action Plan.
These investments represent just one facet of the deepening science, innovation, and technology collaboration between both countries. In AI, researchers from both sides of the Atlantic have dedicated research exchange programmes to share knowledge and expertise in delivering the next wave of cutting-edge innovations that improve people’s lives in areas such as personalised care, autonomous surgeries, and cancer diagnosis – on top of a broader AI partnership which has also been signed by the AI Institutes of both countries.
On a visit to the West Coast at the end of last year Technology Secretary Peter Kyle met a range of companies to bang the drum for further investment in the UK’s technology sector. Just two weeks ago, he also put pen to paper on a new partnership with leading AI firm Anthropic which will explore how the technology can be put to work to transform the public services that UK citizens rely on, and deliver on the government’s Plan for Change.
The Prime Minister will join President Trump at the White House today, where he will be greeted by the President before signing the White House Guest Book and a tete a tete at the Oval Office. This will be followed by a bilateral lunch, and a joint press conference. He will also carry out a defence-focused visit.
On arrival on Wednesday night, he met a select group of CEOs from large US businesses to discuss their existing and growing presence in the UK, and the importance of UK-US trade and investment (above).
He will outline the strength of the UK offer to investors: policy stability; an active partnership with government; an open, trading economy; and a reform agenda focused on making it easier to do business.
The Prime Minister is accompanied by the Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who will join the Prime Minister’s programme at the White House (pictured above with ‘Lord’ Peter Mandelson, who welcomed the UK delegation to Washington).
ATTEMPT TO CLARIFY SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT POSITION ON ISRAEL
Following a meeting with the Israeli UK Deputy Ambassador, External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson said: “Two weeks ago, I met the new Israeli UK Deputy Ambassador at their request.
“We anticipated the Deputy Ambassador would raise concerns about antisemitism, as well as other issues.
“It was rightly for me to decide whether to take the meeting, however, as is normal practice, the First Minister was made aware before the meeting happened.
“My view was that given the Israeli UK Deputy Ambassador had requested a meeting it was an opportunity to express the Scottish Government’s clear and unwavering position on the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and I did exactly that.
“No one intended that this meeting be presented as legitimatising the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza. The Scottish Government has been consistent in our unequivocal condemnation of the atrocities we have witnessed in Gaza.
“The reality, however, is that this meeting has been taken by many to represent a normalisation of relations between the Israeli and Scottish Governments.
“As such, it is clear that it would have been better to ensure that the meeting was strictly limited to the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the appalling loss of life in the region. I apologise for the fact that this did not happen.
“Going forward, it is clear that, having now spoken direct to the Israeli Government and making them aware of our position on an immediate ceasefire, it would not be appropriate to accept any invitation for a further meeting.
“This will remain our position until such time as real progress has been made towards peace, unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance is provided and Israel cooperates fully with its international obligations on the investigation of genocide and war crimes.
“The Scottish Government does not support any normalisation of its relations with the Israeli Government during this period.
“The Scottish Government will never hold back in expressing support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, an end to UK arms being sent to Israel, and the recognition of a sovereign Palestinian state within a two-state solution.”
David Lammy and his French counterpart Stéphane Séjourné write for The Observer on how a ceasefire could enable progress towards a two-state solution – the only long-term route to safety and security:
This is a perilous moment in the Middle East. Israel’s actions in Gaza continue to lead to intolerable loss of civilian life. Hostages taken by Hamas terrorists remain in chains, 316 days since the 7 October attack. There are French and British citizens among them.
Fighting between Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah has intensified. Iranian threats of further escalation mean the risks of a full-scale regional war are rising.
What we are witnessing is a destructive cycle of violence. One miscalculation, and the situation risks spiralling into an even deeper and more intractable conflict. This cycle, with its tendency towards escalation, is making progress towards a political solution harder.
Our response is to reconnect – using the joint strengths of our diplomacy to press a common message. We, the foreign ministers of France and the United Kingdom, travelled together last week to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
By making the first joint visit by a British and French foreign minister for well over a decade, we are showing our commitment to working ever more closely together in a new spirit of cooperation, in the interests of our national security, Europe’s security and the Middle East’s security.
Our countries have a strong record of working together to tackle today’s challenges and, 80 years on from the D-day landings and the liberation of France, we must continue to exercise global leadership in an era of renewed geopolitical instability.
The UK and France are united behind a common set of messages which we delivered to Israelis and Palestinians, including in meetings with Israel’s foreign minister, Israel Katz, and the Palestinian Authority’s prime minister, Mohammad Mustafa.
As UN security council permanent members, we share not only a common interest, but a common responsibility to play our part in the security of Israel, the Occupied Palestinian Territories and the stability of the region as a whole.
All sides should focus on the recently restarted negotiations on a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza. These talks offer a vital opportunity to secure an immediate ceasefire that ends the horrendous conflict in Gaza. A route to securing the release of all the hostages still cruelly held by Hamas. And a pathway to restoring stability to a region already under immense suffering and facing the prospect of far worse.
Our visit to a Palestine Red Crescent Society warehouse was a stark reminder of the toll of this conflict, which is unacceptable. Without progress towards a ceasefire, this will only worsen. Brave healthcare workers across humanitarian organisations are racing to prevent an all-out polio outbreak but they can only start vaccinating if it’s safe to do so.
It’s never too late for peace. An all-out conflict across the region is in nobody’s interests. All parties need to show restraint and invest in diplomacy. Any Iranian attack would have devastating consequences, not least in undermining current Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
The UK and France are not alone in highlighting the urgency of diplomacy to avoid further conflict. Both of us have talked to counterparts across the region and beyond, who share our desire to see a de-escalation in the current tensions. American, Egyptian and Qatari mediators are playing a particularly valuable role in coordinating the negotiations on a ceasefire and hostage deal.
And our engagement reinforces our conviction that urgently securing such a deal is in the interests of Israelis, Palestinians and the wider region. Only a deal can relieve civilian suffering. Only a deal can restore communities’ sense of security. Only a deal can open up the space for progress towards a two-state solution – the only long-term route to safety, security and dignity for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
There can be no delays or excuses. We must all come together. Reconnect in the interests of peace.
Only a political solution can deliver the peace we so desperately need. That’s why we want not just a ceasefire in Gaza but why we are urging Israel, Hezbollah and Lebanon to engage with the US-led discussions to resolve their tensions diplomatically, based on the principles set out by UN security council resolution 1701.
Lammy has been criticised for removing a yellow pin badge expressing solidarity with Israeli hostages when meeting the Palestinian prime minister.
The Foreign Secretary and Stephane Sejourne, his French counterpart, wore the symbols on their suits as they met with Israel Katz, the foreign minister of Israel, on Friday.
A joint statement by the Foreign Ministers of the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy following an update on Israel-Gaza ceasefire negotiations:
‘We, the Foreign Ministers of the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy, strongly support the ongoing mediation efforts by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to conclude the agreement for a ceasefire and the release of hostages and are encouraged by the constructive approach adopted so far.
‘We welcome the fact that technical work will continue over the coming days, including on both the humanitarian provisions and the specific arrangements relating to hostages and detainees, and that senior officials will then reconvene before the end of next week with the aim of concluding the agreement.
‘We urge all parties to continue to engage positively and flexibly in this process. We underline the importance of avoiding any escalatory action in the region which would undermine the prospect for peace. There is too much at stake.’
Closer to home but Gaza-related, SNP MSP John Mason has been stripped of the party whip after “completely unacceptable” social media posts about the conflict in Gaza.
On Thursday, the independent-minded MSP tweeted: ‘Very pleased to see @AngusRobertson met Israeli deputy ambassador @DanielaGrudsky. I also met her last week. Useful discussion on what Israel hopes to achieve in Gaza. As UK learned in Ireland, to achieve peace we must talk to each other… including to people we disagree with.’
Mr Mason followed this up on Friday: ‘If Israel wanted to commit genocide, they would have killed ten times as many.’
Mr Mason said he was “disappointed” by his suspension, which came after he wrote on X that the country’s actions in Gaza did not amount to “genocide”.
Mason’s swift banishment comes after External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson was pictured standing alongside Israel’s Deputy Ambassador to the UK, Daniela Grudsky.
Many within the SNP are highly critical of Israel’s actions in the Middle East and the diplomatic encounter has prompted a furious internal backlash. with growing calls for First Minister John Swinney to sack Mr Robertson.
The UK government has released a statement in response to Israel announcing that five outposts are to be ‘legalised’ in the West Bank.
A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson said: “The UK strongly opposes the announcement that five outposts are to be legalised in the West Bank as well as further punitive measures against the Palestinian Authority.
“Israel must halt its illegal settlement expansion and hold to account those responsible for extremist settler violence.
“We are clear that actions by Israel to weaken the Palestinian Authority must stop. We call for longer-term measures to be put in place to ensure continued correspondent banking relations and assurance that Israel will release frozen funds without delay.
“The UK’s priority is to bring the Gaza conflict to a sustainable end as quickly as possible and ensure a lasting peace in the Middle East, through an irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution.”
Official condemnation, then – but all the while the UK continues to supply weapons to Israel.
More than 16,000 Palestinian children have been slaughtered during the current conflict.Tens of thousands of innocent families have seen their lives shattered.
I wonder if Sir Keir Starmer’s incoming Labour government will do anything different to address the plight of the Palestinian people, or will it be more of the same – business as usual for the arms dealers, words not deeds and more hand-wringing from our political leaders as the slaughter continues? –Ed.
