As Donald Trump floats a controversial peace deal over Ukraine, should Keir Starmer speak out more forcefully against the US president? We want to know what you think
Should Keir Starmer be more vocal in his criticism of Donald Trump’s dubious-sounding peace deal?
As the war in Ukraine continues to devastate the country and destabilise global security, the mercurial president’s comments and positions on the conflict have caused widespread alarm.
Trump’s touted ‘quick peace deal’ aims to give the US access to the war-torn country’s valuable minerals, in an effort to claw back cash after complaining America spent too much supporting them in the conflict. But no security guarantees have been agreed – something Kyiv regards as critical. European leaders are pushing for a US “backstop” to any Ukraine peace agreement to stop Russia from attacking again.
Trump’s proposal has been seen by many as a risky approach that could embolden Vladimir Putin and lead to a weakening of NATO’s solidarity.
In a world where democratic values are being challenged, some argue it is crucial that leaders like Starmer make their positions known, particularly on matters of global security and international peace.
If you can’t see the poll, click here
Our PM is currently approaching the issue with caution, ensuring the UK continues to work with its allies in NATO and the European Union to provide Ukraine with the support it needs, rather than engaging in a public war of words with Trump.
Ahead of today’s crunch talks in Washington, the Labour leader has already warned Donald Trump that Russia could plunge Europe into war again if there’s a botched peace deal.
Starmer insists Trump can be trusted – despite his decision to tear up decades of security cooperation and to engage with Putin.
However, the PM was quick to slap down Trump branding President Zelensky a ‘dictator’. In a call with Ukraine’s President, Starmer directly contradicted the rash statement, saying Zelensky was a “democratically elected leader”.
Speaking to reporters on the way to Washington, Starmer insisted there was “no issue” between Mr Trump and himself when it comes to the Russian tyrant. Asked if Trump knows that Putin is the aggressor in Ukraine, he said: “Of course the president has been very clear about the peace that he wants. He’s right about that. We all want peace. The question is, how do we make sure it’s a lasting peace? There’s no issue between us on this.”
He added: “I’ve got a good relationship with him. I’ve met him, I’ve spoken to him on the phone, and this relationship between our two countries is a special relationship with a long history, forged as we fought wars together, as we traded together. I want it to go from strength to strength.”
What do you think? Should Keir Starmer speak more forcefully against Trump? Or is he wise to be playing it more cautious given the US president’s volatile nature?