NOW'S THE TIME FOR ALLIES TO UNITE FOR PEACE

Sir Keir's message to the world as Zelensky arrives at No.10 after bruising encounter with US President

- By David Williamson and Marco Giannangeli

THE world stands at a "turning point" in the battle to save Ukraine, the Prime Minister declared, as he welcomed Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders to London for an emergency summit this evening.

Sir Keir Starmer called for unity in solidarity with the embattled nation as he scrambled to save peace talks from collapsing in the wake of Donald Trump's Oval Office shouting match with the Ukrainian leader.

President Zelensky is also expected to meet the King at Sandringham today in the latest sign of the strong bond between the two countries. The PM – who hugged Mr Zelensky as he welcomed him to Downing Street yesterday evening - told him he has the “full backing across the United Kingdom” and Britain stands with Ukraine “for as long as it may take”. Sir Keir declared in a statement: "Three years on from Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point. Today I will reaffirm my unwavering support for Ukraine and double down on my commitment to provide capacity, training and aid to Ukraine, putting it in the strongest possible position."

The leaders of allies including France, Germany, Italy, Turkey and Canada will join Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky in Lancaster House today as the conflict enters a critical stage. Downing Street is adamant there must be "no negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine" - and that any deal must deliver a "permanent peace" which ensures the country can defend itself against any future Russian attack.

Sir Keir who last week announced UK defence spending would rise to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 will press European leaders to also "step up".