Starmer discusses with Erdogan war in Ukraine and upcoming summit in London
Photo: Keir Starmer, British Prime Minister (Getty Images)
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan regarding the Russia-Ukraine war. The British leader also invited a representative from Ankara to attend an emergency summit on Ukraine in London, according to the UK government.
According to Downing Street, the conversation between the two leaders took place on February 28.
"The Prime Minister reflected on his recent visit to the US and the importance of working with international partners to uphold European security," the Prime Minister's office stated.
During the Ukraine war discussion, Starmer reaffirmed the UK's commitment to supporting Ukraine for "as long as necessary to deter Russian aggression."
"The Prime Minister went on to set out his aims for the Leaders’ Summit he is convening in London on Sunday and said he was looking forward to Türkiye’s Foreign Minister participating in these talks," the UK government said in a statement.
Downing Street also added that both leaders agreed to maintain communication.
Previously, British media reported that following the failed negotiations between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, London’s position on supporting Kyiv "remains unchanged."
Downing Street confirmed that Starmer had spoken with Zelenskyy and Trump, reaffirming the UK's "unwavering support" for Ukraine. He stated that he is doing everything possible to "find a path to lasting peace based on Ukraine’s sovereignty and security."
Starmer also anticipated meeting international leaders on Sunday, including President Zelenskyy.
According to Bloomberg, Türkiye could consider sending troops to Ukraine. However, Ankara has stated that it will not participate in any peacekeeping mission unless involved in all consultations and preparations for its formation.
It was recently reported that Turkish companies will assist in Ukraine's reconstruction efforts.
