**Starmer Proposes New Coalition to Secure Peace for Ukraine**

Starmer's initiative aims to unite European nations and engage the US to ensure lasting peace and military support for Ukraine.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled a new strategic initiative titled the "coalition of the willing" during a recent summit addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The coalition seeks to unite European nations, including France, Poland, and various others, in a concerted effort to support Ukraine amidst threats from Russia. Starmer emphasized a four-point approach: maintaining military aid, increasing economic pressure on Russia, ensuring Ukraine’s presence in peace negotiations, and enhancing Ukraine's defense infrastructure.

Starmer described the moment as pivotal, stating, "We are at a crossroads in history today," reflecting on the summit attended by leaders from 18 nations, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who acknowledged in his remarks the evident unity among European allies. This meeting follows an intense exchange between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, raising questions about US support in the conflict.

Highlighting the coalition’s goals, Starmer noted that discussions with participating nations would intensify under the urgency of the situation. The UK will contribute an additional £1.6 billion ($2 billion) to procure air defense missiles, underscoring its commitment to Ukraine's military readiness.

Starmer called for a robust peace agreement that guarantees Ukraine's security and does not allow for negotiated terms to be easily breached by Russia. He asserted the necessity for a united European front in these discussions, while ensuring the US is also involved in achieving a sustainable resolution that includes Russia but does not let Moscow dictate terms.

President Zelensky later spoke to the media, indicating readiness to formalize a deal concerning mineral resources with the US, contingent upon a peace agreement with Russia. The backdrop of these diplomatic efforts involves past meetings with world leaders, showcasing a desperate need for cooperation to uphold stability in Eastern Europe.

The coalition's establishment comes amid increased calls from European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, urging a re-armament of European defenses in light of the ongoing conflict. As the situation evolves, both European and American leadership continue to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the critical nature of collaborative action in securing peace for Ukraine.