European allies of Ukraine have agreed to step up military and economic support for Kyiv, describing the war against Russia as being at a “critical moment,” according to a statement from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The announcement came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepared to present a 20-point peace proposal, building on a 28-point plan introduced by US President Donald Trump last month. Zelenskyy met with leaders from France, Germany, and the UK in London before continuing to Brussels and Rome for further talks with EU, NATO, and Italian officials.

The diplomatic push comes amid growing friction between Kyiv and Washington, with Trump publicly criticizing Zelenskyy for allegedly ignoring US-backed proposals. Meanwhile, the Kremlin welcomed aspects of the new US national security strategy, which it said aligns with Russia’s views on NATO and European politics. On the ground, Russian forces continued their offensive, claiming new territorial gains in Donetsk and Zaporizhia while Ukrainian officials reported civilian casualties in multiple regions.

Analysts say the intensified diplomacy underscores both the urgency and complexity of ending the conflict, as Western nations balance pressure on Moscow with calls for a negotiated settlement.