UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has underlined the necessity of placing Ukraine at the forefront of discussions for a peace settlement with Russia, ahead of a meeting with US President Donald Trump set for Thursday in Washington.

In a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Starmer asserted that safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty is crucial for deterring further Russian aggression.

Downing Street has indicated that Starmer will convey these firm positions during his White House meeting, which will also mark a pivotal moment in his diplomatic approach as he strives to maintain a positive relationship with the US while outlining clear expectations regarding Ukraine and Russia.

Among the topics likely to be addressed is the UK’s commitment to increasing its defense budget to 2.5% of gross domestic product, in line with Labour’s election manifesto promises.

Additionally, Starmer plans to extend an invitation from King Charles for Trump to undertake a second state visit to the UK.

As part of its strategic response, the UK government is expected to announce the most comprehensive package of sanctions against Russia since the beginning of the conflict, signaling its resolve to target Russian revenue streams and hinder military operations.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated the administration remains dedicated to providing £3 billion in military support annually to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and indicated readiness to deploy UK troops as peacekeeping forces, if necessary.

Lammy emphasized the importance of achieving a sustainable peace in collaboration with the US and European allies, reiterating that any negotiations involving Ukraine must include the input of Ukraine itself.

In a broader European context, Starmer is anticipated to consult with French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of their respective discussions with Trump, aiming to align on a unified European stance regarding the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Starmer also engaged in dialogue with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, highlighting the imperative for Europe to enhance its security commitments to Ukraine.

Starmer's meeting with Trump is characterized by some as a defining moment of his prime ministership.

Former UK Foreign Secretary William Hague noted its significance as one of the most critical initial bilateral encounters between a UK prime minister and a US president since World War II.

Trump’s administration has faced scrutiny following a series of controversial remarks concerning Zelenskyy, including a dismissal of his importance in peace negotiations.

Despite downplaying Zelenskyy’s role, Trump acknowledged Russia's invasion of Ukraine and suggested that both Zelenskyy and former US President Joe Biden failed to prevent the conflict.

In the midst of these developments, Zelenskyy has yet to agree to a proposed $500 billion minerals agreement with the US, which has been characterized by some officials as leverage aimed at securing concessions from Ukraine in exchange for military support.

Concerns have been raised regarding a potential cutoff of the Starlink satellite internet system, which Ukrainian forces rely on for intelligence and communication, should Zelenskyy reject the terms set forth by the Trump administration.

Ukrainian officials have expressed alarm over the implications of such a move, viewing it as a form of coercion that could severely impact their military operations.

Public sentiment in Ukraine appears to have rallied around Zelenskyy, with approval ratings suggesting increased support for his leadership amid the current geopolitical climate.

Polls in the UK indicate substantial disapproval of Trump's handling of the Ukraine situation, with a majority of citizens advocating for increased defense spending in the face of potential military conflict.