**UK PM Tells Trump Ukraine Must Be at Heart of Peace Talks**
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will tell US President Donald Trump that Ukraine must be a key player in any peace negotiations, according to the UK’s Prime Minister’s Office. This message was conveyed on February 22.
Starmer reiterated his support for Ukraine and its commitment to a “just and enduring” peace in a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The call came after Trump said that Zelensky was not important in negotiations, a claim he had made previously when labeling the Ukrainian leader a “dictator”.
**Trump’s Rhetoric Alarms Allies**
Trump’s comments and actions have raised concerns among allies, particularly after direct talks were held between Washington and Russia in Saudi Arabia on February 18 without Ukraine or Europe being involved. Starmer will meet Trump in Washington D.C. to emphasize that Kyiv must be at the center of any negotiations to end the war.
**Protecting Ukraine’s Sovereignty**
Starmer believes protecting Ukraine’s sovereignty is essential to prevent further Russian aggression. The UK Prime Minister’s Office added that this is crucial for maintaining peace in the region.
**Deal to End War May Be Reached Soon**
The White House announced on February 22 that a deal to end Russia’s war against Ukraine could be reached as early as this week. Trump has previously said he wants to negotiate a swift end to the full-scale war and may meet Russian President Putin before the end of February.
**Europe Not to Be Sidelined**
With US and Russian delegations already meeting in Saudi Arabia, Europe is pushing not to be excluded from the process. However, Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine said that Europe will not directly participate in negotiations but its interests will be considered.
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