European Power ‘Rejected Keir Starmer’s Ukraine proposal, leaving PM struggling to save alliance as cracks in Western unity emerge 

Recent events have seen UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer encounter both internal and foreign difficulties.

International Relations and Ukraine Conflict

Some European politicians have objected to Starmer’s suggestion to send a peacekeeping mission to Ukraine. Emphasising the need for Western unity, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni advised against acts that can cause division during a conference in London. Saying “We are all very committed to a goal that we all want to achieve, which is a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and I think it is very, very important that we avoid the risk that the West divides,” she said.

Notwithstanding these obstacles, Starmer’s diplomatic initiatives have been warmly welcomed in Germany and France. His management of the Ukrainian issue and initiatives to deepen connections to the European Union have raised his profile among European leaders. Starmer is orienting the UK towards Europe, therefore deviating from its historical alignment with the US.

Domestic Policy and Welfare Reforms

Aiming to boost governmental finances, Starmer is seeking major welfare reforms domestically including cuts to disability benefits. Within his own Labour Party as well as from disability NGOs, these ideas have generated opposition since they claim such cuts would force disabled people into poverty. Starmer argues the measures are a “moral imperative,” trying to strike a balance between helping the disadvantaged and motivating productivity.

According to research by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), the social safety net of the United Kingdom is among the lowest among wealthy nations. Only in two of the past 14 years have unemployment benefits covered basic expenses since 2010. By 2029–30, the intended benefit reforms are supposed to save around £5 billion.

Diplomatic Tensions with Russia

In response to Russia’s ejection of British diplomats, the UK kicked a Russian diplomat abroad, so raising tensions between the two countries. This action coincides with debates about possible peacekeeping operations and the UK’s ongoing military assistance of Ukraine.

Diplomatic attempts nevertheless have some difficulties. Should Russia reject a planned 30-day truce brokered in Saudi Arabia between US and Ukrainian authorities, President Trump has threatened Russia with financial fines. This action is considered a major step towards the continuous conflict, which started three years ago, being ended. To compel Russia into consenting to peace negotiations, European leaders keep underlining unity and strengthening defence cooperation.

Overall, although Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s plan has attracted support from many countries, the composition of the coalition and the degree of each nation’s engagement differ, so reflecting different national policies and strategic interests.