Starmer accuses Putin of 'playing games' over Ukraine peace deal

Sir Keir Starmer has called for stronger Western sanctions on Russia. He believes this is necessary to bring Russia to negotiations.

Starmer accused Vladimir Putin of "playing games" and delaying action. Putin wants sanctions lifted before a US-brokered maritime ceasefire can happen.

"Now is not the time to weaken sanctions," Starmer said in Paris. He is meeting with European leaders at a summit.

French President Emmanuel Macron suggested a European force could respond if attacked by Moscow.

Starmer emphasized the need for a "framework and a deadline" for peace talks in Ukraine. He agreed with partners that more support for Ukraine is essential.

"We must increase pressure on Russia," he stated, calling for tougher sanctions. This includes targeting Russia's energy revenues and working together effectively.

He noted that the political will for peace in Ukraine is strong and united across Europe. The UK will chair the next meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact group to provide military aid.

Starmer mentioned upcoming meetings between defense chiefs from the UK, France, and Germany in Ukraine but did not specify dates.

Earlier, he spoke with Ukrainian President Zelensky about ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine. Starmer described Putin's promises as "hollow."

Zelensky expressed that everyone understands Russia does not want peace. He noted that discussions about security guarantees would occur soon.

In a post on X, Zelensky thanked the UK and France for their support. He described their collaboration as a "coalition of strength for peace."

"Our unity can force Russia into peace," he added.

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violating terms of a tentative deal regarding energy strikes. Washington announced this Black Sea deal after talks in Saudi Arabia.

However, the Kremlin stated it would only take effect if sanctions were lifted on Russian banks involved in food trade.

Moscow's demands include reconnecting certain banks to the Swift payment system and lifting restrictions on ships under Russian flags involved in food trade.

US President Donald Trump mentioned they are considering Moscow's request, but the EU insists sanctions won't be lifted until Russian troops withdraw from Ukrainian territory.

Zelensky hopes the US will remain firm against Russian demands despite not being part of the coalition of willing nations.

Macron confirmed that European countries unanimously agreed not to lift sanctions against Moscow.

"The time is not right to lift sanctions," he stated, emphasizing economic pressure must continue.

He also mentioned that any attack on a European force protecting a ceasefire would be met with response measures.

The UK and France are leading efforts to send forces to deter future Russian aggression during any ceasefire period.

Starmer reiterated that Parliament should have input on troop deployments.

European leaders displayed unity in Paris; however, many have ruled out sending troops to Ukraine due to domestic concerns or perceived threats from Russia.

Countries like Finland and Poland feel directly threatened by Russia and prioritize their own borders' protection over foreign deployments.

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed skepticism about Franco-British plans, proposing an alternative involving UN military contingents instead.

European officials believe Ukraine’s army should be its first line of defense against future attacks from Russia under any peace settlement.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warned that a European force could lead to conflict between Russia and NATO. She criticized London and Paris for considering military intervention under the guise of peacekeeping missions, stating Russia opposes such scenarios categorically.