**UK Prime Minister Faces Pressure from US to Criticize Ukraine’s President**
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he faced pressure from the US to criticize Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after a heated meeting in the Oval Office last month. In an interview with the New York Times, Starmer revealed that the UK was under pressure to condemn Zelensky in strong terms.
**Trying to Stay Neutral**
Starmer refused to get drawn into the controversy, instead calling for both sides to “try and get back on the same page.” He added that he has a good relationship with former US President Donald Trump and understands what he’s trying to achieve. Starmer even sent his national security adviser to Kyiv to advise Zelensky on how to repair relations with Trump.
**Ukraine Remains Skeptical**
Despite efforts by the UK and US to broker a ceasefire, Ukrainian officials remain skeptical about Washington’s intentions. Russia has continued to launch hundreds of drones at Ukraine, killing dozens of civilians, despite agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure.
**US-Russia Talks in Riyadh**
US negotiators are set to meet with Ukrainian and Russian delegates in Riyadh to discuss the partial ceasefire proposal. The talks come after Trump’s team held separate bilateral talks with each side, including meetings with Russia in Riyadh and Istanbul.
**Starmer Calls for Coalition of the Willing**
UK Prime Minister Starmer has called for countries to join a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine with a peacekeeping force. He warned that Russian President Putin will breach any peace deal unless security guarantees are in place.
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