What's happened
On September 18-19, 2025, US President Donald Trump, during a UK state visit and joint press conference with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressed disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin for failing to end the Ukraine war despite their personal relationship. Trump reiterated his belief that lowering oil prices and sanctions on Russian energy buyers could pressure Putin to withdraw. Meanwhile, Putin warned that any foreign troops deployed in Ukraine during ongoing fighting would be legitimate targets, rejecting Western plans for a peacekeeping 'reassurance force' pledged by 26 countries. The UK and allies continue to support Ukraine militarily and diplomatically amid stalled peace talks.
What's behind the headline?
Trump’s Disappointment and Strategy
Trump’s public criticism of Putin marks a notable shift from his earlier ambivalence, highlighting frustration over stalled peace efforts despite their personal rapport. His strategy hinges on economic pressure, particularly targeting Russian oil revenues by urging NATO and European countries to halt purchases, aiming to force Putin’s withdrawal.
The Western Coalition’s Security Guarantees
The 'coalition of the willing,' comprising 26 countries led by France and the UK, has committed to deploying a 'reassurance force' to Ukraine post-conflict. This force aims to deter renewed Russian aggression but faces outright rejection from Moscow, which views foreign troops on Ukrainian soil as a direct threat.
Putin’s Position and Military Posture
Putin’s warning that foreign troops would be legitimate targets underscores Russia’s hardline stance and skepticism toward Western-led security arrangements. His framing of Ukraine’s Western military ties as root causes of the conflict reflects Moscow’s broader narrative justifying its invasion.
Implications for Peace Prospects
The entrenched positions and mutual distrust between Russia and the West complicate peace negotiations. Trump’s emphasis on sanctions and oil prices as leverage suggests economic warfare will intensify. The Western coalition’s military support for Ukraine signals a long-term commitment, while Russia’s rejection of peacekeeping forces indicates readiness to continue military operations if diplomacy fails.
Impact on Global Security
The conflict’s persistence and NATO’s involvement heighten risks of broader regional instability. The US and UK’s roles as key actors shape international responses, with Trump’s visit reinforcing transatlantic ties despite his unconventional diplomacy. The situation demands close monitoring as economic sanctions, military aid, and diplomatic efforts evolve.
What the papers say
Daniel Keane in The Independent reports Trump’s blunt admission that Putin has “really let me down” in efforts to end the war, emphasizing the personal relationship that raised hopes for a quick resolution. Keane highlights Trump’s call for Europe to stop buying Russian oil to pressure Moscow. The South China Morning Post details the joint press conference at Chequers, noting Starmer’s praise for European support to Ukraine and Trump’s vague promise of “good news” on the conflict, while also covering the broader diplomatic context including potential meetings at the UN General Assembly. The Guardian’s coverage by an unnamed correspondent underscores Trump’s criticism of Putin and his framing of the war as a failure of US leadership respect, while also noting Trump’s avoidance of contentious UK domestic issues during the visit. Ali Harb at Al Jazeera focuses on the strong US-UK partnership and Trump’s reiteration of his commitment to ending the war, alongside his comments on Israel and NATO. The Moscow Times provides insight into Russia’s rejection of Western peacekeeping plans, quoting Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov and Putin’s warnings that foreign troops would be legitimate targets, framing Ukraine’s Western ties as a root cause of the conflict. The NY Post offers analysis of Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate and the role of sanctions, quoting US and Ukrainian officials on security guarantees and the challenges posed by Moscow’s stance. These varied perspectives collectively illustrate the complex diplomatic dance, the hardened positions, and the interplay of military, economic, and political strategies shaping the ongoing conflict.
How we got here
The Russia-Ukraine conflict began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, following years of tension over Ukraine's NATO aspirations. Despite multiple diplomatic efforts, including a recent summit between Trump and Putin in Alaska, peace talks have stalled. Western nations, led by France and the UK, have pledged a 'reassurance force' to secure any future peace deal, a plan rejected by Russia. The war has caused massive casualties and displacement, with ongoing military and economic pressure shaping the conflict's trajectory.
Go deeper
- What are the chances of a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine?
- How is the coalition of countries supporting Ukraine structured?
- What are the implications of Putin's rejection of foreign troops in Ukraine?
Common question
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What is Western Military Support for Ukraine?
Recently, a coalition of Western countries led by France and Britain announced plans to deploy a reassurance force to Ukraine. This move aims to bolster Ukraine's security amid ongoing conflict with Russia. But what exactly does this support involve, and why are these countries stepping in? Here, we explore the details of Western military backing for Ukraine, Russia's objections, and what this could mean for the future of the conflict.
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How Are Western Countries Supporting Ukraine Amid Tensions with Russia?
With ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, many wonder how Western nations are stepping in to support Ukraine's security. From military aid to diplomatic efforts, the international community is actively involved. But what exactly are these support measures, and what risks do they carry? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding Western support for Ukraine and the broader geopolitical implications.
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What’s Behind the Current Political and Global Conflicts?
Today’s headlines reveal a complex web of political crises, international tensions, and regional violence. From France’s government deadlock to Russia’s opposition to Western peace efforts in Ukraine, these stories highlight the interconnected nature of global conflicts. Understanding these issues can help us see the bigger picture and anticipate future developments. Below, we explore some of the most pressing questions about these ongoing crises.
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Will Ukraine Get Peacekeeping Troops? What’s the Latest?
With ongoing tensions in Ukraine, many are wondering if peacekeeping troops will be deployed to help end the conflict. Recent developments show a divided stance among global powers, with some countries pushing for international peace efforts and others, like Russia, firmly opposing foreign military presence. Here’s what you need to know about the current situation, peace talks, and international involvement in Ukraine.
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How Will Rising Tensions in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran Impact Global Markets?
Recent developments in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran are causing ripples across global markets. From conflicts and military actions to diplomatic sanctions, these events raise important questions about economic stability and future trends. Below, we explore key questions to understand how these crises might influence markets worldwide and what to watch for next.
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Why does Russia oppose peacekeeping troops in Ukraine?
The conflict in Ukraine has drawn international attention, especially regarding the deployment of peacekeeping forces. Russia strongly opposes foreign troops on Ukrainian soil, viewing such actions as threats to its security. Understanding Russia's stance helps clarify the broader geopolitical tensions and the challenges in reaching a peaceful resolution. Below, we explore why Russia opposes peacekeeping efforts, what implications this has, and how other countries are responding.
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What Does the Ukraine-Russia Standoff Mean for Global Peace?
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has significant implications for international stability. With tensions rising and foreign military support being debated, many are wondering what this means for global peace. In this page, we explore the risks of escalation, the role of Western support, potential international involvement, and expert opinions on the future of this conflict.
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Why Did Trump Criticize Putin Over Ukraine?
In September 2025, US President Donald Trump publicly criticized Vladimir Putin during a UK visit, highlighting tensions and disagreements over the Ukraine conflict. This raises questions about the current state of the war, international support for Ukraine, and Russia's plans for peace. Below, we explore the key issues shaping this ongoing geopolitical crisis and what it means for global stability.
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What Are World Leaders Saying About the Ukraine War?
The Ukraine conflict continues to dominate headlines worldwide, with leaders from different countries voicing their opinions and strategies. From criticism of Russia's actions to support for Ukraine, the international response is complex and evolving. Curious about how global powers are reacting and what this means for peace efforts? Below, we explore key questions about the current state of the Ukraine war and international diplomacy.
More on these topics
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Emmanuel Jean-Michel Frédéric Macron is a French politician who has been President of France and ex officio Co-Prince of Andorra since 14 May 2017.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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France, officially the French Republic, is a country consisting of metropolitan France in Western Europe and several overseas regions and territories.
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Moscow is the capital and largest city of Russia. The megacity stands on the Moskva River in the central portion of Western Russia, with a population estimated at 12.6 million residents within the city limits, while over 17 million residents in the urban
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The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, also called the North Atlantic Alliance, is an intergovernmental military alliance between 30 North American and European countries.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.
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Vladivostok is a city and the administrative centre of the Far Eastern Federal District and Primorsky Krai, Russia, located around the Golden Horn Bay, not far from Russia's borders with China and North Korea.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who is the 46th and current president of the United States. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 and represented Delaware in the United States Senate