European leaders are gathering in London on March 2 to discuss the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, as they attempt to recover from the collective shock and turmoil following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s catastrophic visit to Washington earlier this week.
Ahead of the conference, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed Zelensky to his office, where it was announced that the UK would provide a $2.84 billion loan to Ukraine. Zelensky stated via social media that the loan would enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities and would be repaid using revenues from frozen Russian assets.
While this loan is not a game-changer, it offers Zelensky some consolation after an unprecedented and harsh clash with U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelensky departed the White House on February 28 earlier than expected, with empty hands.
The conference in London has taken on renewed significance following this confrontation. The revival of relations between Trump and Zelensky is expected to be a key agenda point. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who is also in London, mentioned that Zelensky must find a way to improve his relationship with Trump. However, it remains unclear whether this is achievable. Trump has stated that Zelensky could return “whenever he wants peace.”
Ahead of the conference, Starmer meets separately with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is likely to play an important role in Europe’s efforts to convince Washington of the need to continue supporting Ukraine. Meloni, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, is ideologically aligned with Trump, who has praised her leadership.
Before Zelensky’s Washington visit, European leaders showed urgency in proving their importance to the Trump administration. This urgency was fueled by remarks from senior U.S. officials suggesting that Europe would not be directly involved in peace negotiations for Ukraine and by indications that U.S.-Russia relations might be improving.
Previous crisis talks were held in Paris last week, focusing on whether Europe could establish a peacekeeping force to be deployed in Ukraine following a ceasefire or peace agreement, as well as increasing defense spending.
The challenge for the London talks, following the debacle at the White House, is to achieve something more tangible and substantial. Furthermore, some European leaders are moving beyond simply demonstrating their value to Washington. They are preparing for scenarios where they may not rely on the U.S. security umbrella.
Friedrich Merz, the winner of the recent German parliamentary elections, stated last week that Europe must “become independent” from the United States. After Zelensky’s Washington visit, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock affirmed support for measures to help Ukraine resist Russian aggression, even if the U.S. pulls back its support, according to REL.
“This is a historic test for Europe,” said Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala on March 1. “Europe must take care of its own security.”
Later, Zelensky will meet with King Charles III. Although the British monarch’s role is largely symbolic, the meeting also serves as a political message to Washington.
Starmer’s invitation to Trump for a second state visit to the UK was widely seen as a pivotal moment during the British Prime Minister’s Washington visit on February 27. The meeting with Charles underscores the UK’s support for Zelensky and its desire to act as a bridge and peacemaker between Washington and Kyiv.
