UK PM greets Zelensky in London ahead of US‑Russia summit

UK Prime Minister Welcomes Ukrainian President in Downing Street

On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in London, stepping onto the steps of Downing Street where UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended a warm hug and handshake. The visit came shortly after Zelensky took part in a virtual call with US President Donald Trump, setting the stage for a key US‑Russia summit planned for Friday.

Anticipated US‑Russia Summit in Alaska

• Trump and Vladimir Putin are scheduled to meet Friday at an Alaskan air base—the first time the Russian leader has been permitted on Western soil since February 2022.
• The summit follows a stepped‑up Russian offensive, raising concerns that Trump and Putin could reach a deal forcing painful concessions on Ukraine.
• Starmer announced a “viable” chance for a ceasefire after more than three years of fighting.

Ukraine’s Coordinated Drones Strike on Russian Frontline

Near the front line, Ukraine fired dozens of drones over Russia overnight, wounding three people and igniting fires, including at an oil refinery in the southern city of Volgograd. Kyiv calls the strikes fair retaliation for Moscow’s daily missile and drone barrages on its civilians.

Three‑Way Meeting Looming: Trump Signals Mixed Messages

• Trump has urged a quick second meeting involving both Zelensky and Putin if the first summit proceeds smoothly.
• He warned that if he does not receive the necessary answers, a second meeting will not occur.
• After a February meeting at the White House, Zelensky publicly supported US diplomacy but remains skeptical of Trump’s intentions.

European Leaders Rally Behind Ukraine’s Stand

During a Berlin call, Zelensky joined Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other European leaders, as well as NATO and EU chiefs, underscoring a united stance against Russia. Starmer informed the European meeting that the Coalition of the Willing had drafted workable military plans for a ceasefire, while remaining prepared to apply sanctions on Russia.

NATO’s Position on the Summit

NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte declared: “The ball is now in Putin’s court.”