Keir Starmer has spoken with US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron following his meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky at Downing Street, the PA news agency understands.
In a post on X, BloombergUK's Political Editor Alex Wickham said the conversations between Sir Keir and both leaders were "described as constructive".
Sir Keir and Zelensky hugged outside No. 10 on Saturday ahead of a key summit on the war with Russia on Sunday, with several European leaders heading to the capital for the crunch talks.
During the meeting between the two leaders today, Sir Keir and Zelensky exchanged warm words, with PM telling him he had “full backing across the United Kingdom and we stand with Ukraine for as long as it may take”.
The summit followed an extraordinary clash between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump on Friday that shocked the world.
The two leaders got in a huge public clash over a peace deal with Russia, with Trump accusing Zelensky of "gambling with World War 3".
Both he and his Vice President J.D. Vance also accused him of being "disrepectful" in his tone, as he challenged the idea of Russian leader Vladimir Putin being a reliable partner in peace talks.
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Volodymyr Zelensky thanks the UK for 'the tremendous support'
Last night Volodymyr Zelensky took to the social media site X to express his gratitude to the UK people and government.
Keir Starmer: "My support for Ukraine is unwavering"
Sharing a 40 second clip to X, formerly known as Twitter, Keir Starmer reiterated the UK's position by saying: "The UK stands with you Volodymyr Zelensky.
Keir Starmer 'determined to find a path that ends Russia's illegal war'
Keir Starmer said it was 'an honour to welcome Volodymyr Zelensky to Downing Street' today.
Keir Starmer and Trump share 'constructive' call after Zelensky visit
Sir Keir Starmer spoke with US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron following his meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky at Downing Street, the PA news agency understands.
In a post on X, BloombergUK's Political Editor Alex Wickham said the conversations between Sir Keir and both leaders had been "described as constructive".
Rachel Reeves sends billions in frozen Russian assets to Ukraine
During Volodymyr Zelensky's visit, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed papers greenlighting a further £2.6bn in loans to support Kyiv.
The funds are linked to frozen Russian assets, as part what are known among economists as Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Loans (ERAs), as per Sky News.
Reeves signed the agreement during a virtual call with the Ukrainian finance minister Sergii Marchenko in No11 on Saturday evening, flanked by Sir Keir Starmer and Zelensky.
Meanwhile, Reeves is also set to change the £27.8B National Wealth Fund so it can be spent on the defence sector, The Times reports.
Its previous remit limited it to green energy infrastructure projects.
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Keir Starmer takes subtle dig at Donald Trump after Zelensky clash
Sir Keir Starmer took a subtle swipe at Donald Trump with his parting words to Zelensky.
He wrote on X following his meeting with the Ukraine premier: "Action, not just words. Britain stands with Ukraine, today and always."
Zelensky leaves No10 with another hug from Starmer
Volodymyr Zelensky has left Downing Street following his meeting with Sir Keir Starmer.
The pair shared warm words in front of the media before having private talks.
The PM reaffirmed Britain's support for Kyiv as its three year war with Russia, which was sparked by Putin's invasion in February 2022, grinds on.
Sir Keir told the Ukrainian leader that the UK would "stand with Ukraine for as long as it may take".
When Zelensky arrived, Sir Keir made the unusual decision to come walk out onto the street to meet his Ukrainian counterpart and offered him a warm embrace.
Following the meeting, the PM opted to walk down to Zelensky's motorcade, with the pair sharing another hug before he left.
Ukraine 'very happy' about 100-year partnership agreement with UK, Zelensky
Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine is very happy with the 100-year partnership agreement it signed with the UK in January.
Describing it as an “historic document”, Zelensky said: “I’m thankful that you organised such [a] great summit for tomorrow.
“And we are very happy in Ukraine that we have such strategic partners, we’ve signed with you historic document.”
Speaking as Zelensky sat with Sir Keir before the media, Zelensky said, "we have only with you such documents, with the United Kingdom, so we’re happy and we count on your support and really, really, really happy that we have such partners and such friends".
The agreement promises support for Ukraine across various sectors, including healthcare and military tech.
Starmer previously said it commits the two sides to cooperate on defense — especially maritime security against Russian activity in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea and Sea of Azov — as well as on technology projects including drones, which have become key weapons for both sides in the war, as per AP.
It also includes a system to help track stolen Ukrainian grain exported by Russia from occupied parts that have been occupied by Vladimir Putin's forces.
Zelensky thanks King Charles for Sandringham invite
Volodymyr Zelensky offered his thanks to King Charles for agreeing to meet during his visit to the UK.
The Ukrainian President is due speak with the monarch at Sandringham, King Charles' country estate, on Sunday, as per The Sun.
Zelensky said: “I’m very happy that His Majesty the King accepted my meeting tomorrow."
A Palace insider told the outlet: “Zelensky was always due to be in the UK this weekend and so a meeting with the King was pencilled in".
VIDEO: Starmer says Ukraine has UK's full backing
Keir Starmer has reaffirmed the UK's commitment to Ukraine following Volodymyr Zelensky's dramatic dust-up with Donald Trump.
Sir Keir told him the UK would stand with Kyiv for "as long as it may take", as Ukraine continues to fight back Russian invaders three years into the conflict.
The PM said the cheers that greeted Zelensky as he arrived at Downing Street showed the "unwavering" support Ukraine has in Britain.
Keir Starmer assures Zelenskyy he has full UK backing Watch moment Keir Starmer and Zelenksy share warm embrace after Trump clash
Keir Starmer walked out of Downing Street to meet Volodymyr Zelensky, sharing a hug with the Ukrainian leader.
It comes just hours after Zelensky had a fiery class with US President Donald Trump and his Vice President J.D. Vance during a meeting a White House.
In extraordinary scenes, Trump accused Zelensky of "gambling with World War Three" and being "very disrespectful" to the US, which he said had backed Ukraine "far more than a lot of people say they should have".
Vance accused Zelensky of being ungrateful for the support the US has provided so far, falsely claiming the Ukrainian leader had never thanked Washington for the billions in military aid his country has received.
Sir Keir is hoping to keep Trump onside, as the leader of Britain's most important and powerful ally, and also reaffirm the UK's commitment to continuing support for Ukraine.
Zelensky thanked Sir Keir and said Ukraine is "really happy" to have "such partners and such friends".
Keir Starmer meets Zelenskyy with warm embrace at Downing Street Keir Starmer reaffirms commitment to Ukraine after Trump row
Sir Keir Starmer has told Volodymyr Zelensky that Ukraine has the “full backing” of the UK, amid doubts over Washington's commitment to European security.
Speaking during a meeting with the Ukrainian leader at Downing Street on Saturday, he said: “You have full backing across the United Kingdom and we have full backing for Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Crowds had gathered outside Downing Street to cheer Zelensky as he arrived at the PM's London residence.
Sir Keir said the reaction showed the “unwavering determination” Britain has to stand with Ukraine.
Zelensky dodges question about Donald Trump after Oval Office bust-up
Volodymyr Zelensky dodged a question about Donald Trump after his row with the US President in the Oval Office on Friday.
The Ukrainian President was asked by reporters if he could get Trump back on side but declined to answer before entering No10.
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Zelensky arrives at No. 10
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Downing Street for bilateral talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
King Charles offers olive branch to Zelensky after fiery Trump row
King Charles has offered Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky an olive branch after the monarch announced a meeting at Sandringham.
The King is set to welcome Zelensky to Sandringham on Sunday, just days after the Ukrainian premier's public spat with US President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance in the White House.
As fears of a deepening trans-Atlantic rift grow between the US and Europe following the unprecedented scenes in the Oval Office, King Charles will hold talks with Zelensky at his country estate, reports The Sun.
SNP MP also says Trump's state visit should be cancelled
A senior SNP MP has also said Donald Trump's impending state visit to the UK should not go ahead following.
SNP Foreign Affairs spokesperson Stephen Gethins MP told the BBC: “I’d describe last night’s performance as bullying, as a bigger country ganging up on a small country that is struggling for its very survival.
“The UK has left itself in an utterly isolated position. We need to get closer to our European partners and allies.
“Right now, given that treatment of one of our allies in Ukraine, I do not see how a state visit could possibly go ahead.”
Starmer should cancel Trump state visit - Scottish Greens
The Scottish Green say Downing Street should cancel Donald Trump's UK state visit after the US President's fiery exchange with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.
The PM presented Mr Trump with the "unprecedent" invitation in the White House less than 24 hours before the two presidents clashed in front of the world's media in the Oval Office.
Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie said: “The invitation for a state visit should never have been made in the first place, and it is time for it to be withdrawn.
“It must be obvious how much danger there is in it, both for Starmer’s government and for the country.
“All democratic leaders need to stand up to Trump and the toxic, hateful and authoritarian politics that he represents.”
Russia calls Oval Office blowout a 'complete political and diplomatic failure' for Ukraine
Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson described Friday’s Oval Office blowout between Trump and Zelensky as a “complete political and diplomatic failure” for Kyiv.
In a statement on Saturday, Maria Zakharova also slammed the “political weakness and extreme moral degradation” of European leaders who continue to support Ukraine and its president.
Zakharova said Russia’s war aims remain unchanged, implying Moscow will insist on a demilitarised Ukraine barred from NATO, and on annexing Ukrainian territories it controls.
Russian drone attack wounds 12 civilians including children, Ukraine says
A nighttime Russian drone strike on Ukraine’s second city of Kharkiv wounded 12 civilians, including three children, the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine reported on Saturday.
According to Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, some of the drones hit a medical facility where inpatients were staying overnight, while others damaged residential buildings.
Ukraine’s air force said Russia overnight launched a total of 154 attack drones at Ukrainian territory, 103 of which were shot down.
Volodymyr Zelensky says America's support is 'crucial'
America's support for Ukraine is "crucial", Volodymyr Zelensky has said as he arrived in the UK to meet Sir Keir Starmer.
The Prime Minister will meet the Ukrainian president in Downing Street on Saturday afternoon before hosting a defence summit of European leaders on Sunday.
Mr Zelensky has arrived in the UK after an unprecedented public clash with US President Donald Trump and his vice president JD Vance in the White House's Oval Office on Friday.
The Ukrainian leader's plane, emblazoned with the nation's flag, touched at London's Stansted Airport on Saturday morning and was met by a convoy of cars, following his spat with Mr Trump.
Zelensky's motorcade leaving the aiirport today
Zelensky's plane landed at Stanstead Airport before his motorcade began its journey to London.
Zelensky's full statement on Trump clash
Zelensky said: "We are very grateful to the United States for all the support. I’m thankful to President Trump, Congress for their bipartisan support, and American people. Ukrainians have always appreciated this support, especially during these three years of full-scale invasion.
"America’s help has been vital in helping us survive, and I want to acknowledge that. Despite the tough dialogue, we remain strategic partners. But we need to be honest and direct with each other to truly understand our shared goals.
"It’s crucial for us to have President Trump’s support. He wants to end the war, but no one wants peace more than we do. We are the ones living this war in Ukraine. It’s a fight for our freedom, for our very survival.
"As President Reagan once said: ‘Peace is not just the absence of war.’ We’re talking about just and lasting peace – freedom, justice, and human rights for everyone. A ceasefire won’t work with Putin. He has broken ceasefires 25 times over the last 10 years. A real peace is the only solution.
"We are ready to sign the minerals agreement, and it will be the first step toward security guarantees. But it’s not enough, and we need more than just that. A ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous for Ukraine. We’ve been fighting for three years, and Ukrainian people need to know that America is on our side.
"I cannot change Ukraine’s position on Russia. The Russians are killing us. Russia is the enemy, and that’s the reality we face. Ukraine wants peace, but it must be a just and lasting peace. For that, we need to be strong at the negotiation table. Peace can only come when we know we have security guarantees, when our army is strong, and our partners are with us.
"We want peace. That’s why I came to the United States, and visited President Trump. The deal on minerals is just a first step toward security guarantees and getting closer to peace. Our situation is tough, but we can’t just stop fighting and not having guarantees that Putin will not return tomorrow.
"It will be difficult without the US support. But we can’t lose our will, our freedom, or our people. We’ve seen how Russians came to our homes and killed many people. Nobody wants another wave of occupation. If we cannot be accepted to Nato, we need some clear structure of security guarantees from our allies in the US.
Europe is ready for contingencies and to help fund our large army. We also need the US role in defining security guarantees – what kind, what volume, and when. Once these guarantees are in place, we can talk with Russia, Europe, and the US about diplomacy. War alone is too long, and we don’t have enough weapons to push them out entirely.
"When someone talks about losses, every single life matters. Russia invaded our homes, killed our people, and tried to erase us. This isn’t just about territories or numbers – it’s about real lives. That’s what we need everyone to understand.
"I want the US to stand more firmly on our side. This is not just a war between our two countries; Russia brought this war on to our territory and into our homes. They are wrong because they disrespected our territorial integrity.
"All Ukrainians want to hear a strong US position on our side. It’s understandable the US might look for dialogue with Putin. But the US has always spoken about ‘peace through strength’. And together we can take strong steps against Putin.
"Our relationship with the American president is more than just two leaders; it’s a historic and solid bond between our peoples. That’s why I always begin with words of gratitude from our nation to the American nation.
"American people helped save our people. Humans and human rights come first. We’re truly thankful. We want only strong relations with America, and I really hope we will have them."
Starmer and Zelensky to meet this afternoon
Starmer will meet with Zelensky today, Number 10 has confirmed.
Ukraine issues update on Russian losses
Ukraine says Russia has suffered 875,610 casualties since the start of the invasion in 2022.
General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces added on Friday that Russia has also lost 10,233 tanks, 21,249 armoured fighting vehicles, 39,101 vehicles and fuel tanks, 23,908 artillery systems, 1,304 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,088 air defense systems, 370 airplanes, 331 helicopters, 27,402 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine.
Zelensky lands in the UK
Zelensky's plane has landed in the UK as he prepares to meet European leaders.
Nigel Farage says Putin the 'winner' from Trump-Zelensky spat
Nigel Farage has given his thoughts on Friday's events.
Zelensky flying to London
Zelensky has confirmed he will fly to London ahead of a meeting with European leaders, hosted by Sir Keir Starmer.
Zelensky posts update on Telegram
In a new post, Mr Zelensky said: “It is important for people in Ukraine to know that they are not alone, that their interests are represented in every country, in every corner of the world."
Russia strikes Ukrainian hospital
A huge fire broke out at a hospital in Kharkiv after a huge overnight strike from the Russians.
The attack was carried out just hours the row at the White House.
A child was injured, according to reports.
Trump's former adviser says President 'siding with Putin'
John Bolton, Donald Trump's former security adviser, posted the following on X.
Ukraine targeted by 154 Russian drones
Ukraine's air defences took out 103 of the 154 drones fired during an overnight strike, Kyiv claims.
Russia launched another attack after Trump and Zelensky's White House clash.
Did one reporter's question trigger the row?
Before Trump and Zelensky's explosive row, a reporter asked the Ukrainian leader: "Why don't you wear a suit? Do you own a suit? A lot of Americans have a problem with you not respecting the dignity of the office."
Zelensky replied:"I will wear a costume after this war will finish. Maybe something like yours, maybe something better, I don't know. We will see. Maybe something cheaper."
Donald Trump mocks 'big shot' Zelensky
After his spat with Zelensky in the White House, Trump mockingly addressed the clash while talking to reporters.
Trump said: 'I want a ceasefire now. He said, 'Oh, I don't want a ceasefire.'
"Well, all of a sudden, he's a big shot, because he has the US on his side. Either we're going to end it or let him fight it out. And if he fights it out, it's not going to be pretty, because without it, without us, he doesn't win."
Ukrainians rally around Zelensky after spat with Trump
Speaking to AP, Nataliia Serhiienko, 67, a retiree in Kyiv, said Ukrainians approved of their president's performance in Washington, "because Zelenskyy fought like a lion.”
“They had a heated meeting, a very heated conversation,” she said. But Zelensky "was defending Ukraine’s interests.”
Oleh Syniehubov, head of the Kharkiv region, added: “Our leader, despite the pressure, stands firm in defending the interests of Ukraine and Ukrainians. … We need only a just peace with security guarantees."
Kyiv resident Artem Vasyliev, 37, said he had seen “complete disrespect” from the United States in the Oval Office exchange, despite the fact that Ukraine “was the first country that stood up to Russia.”
Welcome to our live coverage of the Ukraine War
Good morning from London.
Stay across this live blog for the latest from Kyiv, Washington, Moscow and other European capitals, as the fallout from Trump's explosive meeting with Zelensky continues.
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