Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian leader, has been warmly lauded in the run-up to his Sunday meeting with King Charles III. This follows an unusually public feud involving Zelenskyy, U.S. President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who subjected the Ukrainian leader to a barrage of harsh criticism in the Oval Office. This incident curtailed a visit originally intended to sign a minerals agreement between Ukraine and the U.S., while Trump’s administration liaises directly with Russia to halt the war.

While some European leaders have openly criticized these Oval Office incidents, Starmer has refrained from doing so. However, he conversed with both Zelenskyy and Trump on Friday evening. During their Saturday meeting, Starmer was seated next to the Ukrainian leader, a setting reminiscent of the meeting with Trump.

As Zelenskyy made his Downing Street entrance, he was greeted by a crowd of pro-Ukrainian protesters outside the iconic political street’s gates, applauding Zelenskyy’s motorcade upon arrival.

Once inside, Starmer mentioned the street’s cheering crowd to Zelenskyy, stating he hoped Zelenskyy had heard their cheers. He added that the demonstration was a testament to the UK citizens’ support for both him and Ukraine, and their unwavering resolution to stand by them in pursuit of a lasting peace, based on Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.

Zelenskyy expressed his delight at meeting King Charles III on Sunday. He also expressed satisfaction over Ukraine having strategic allies like the U.K. He made a reference to a century-long partnership agreement signed between the two nations earlier this year, a move intended to demonstrate London’s commitment to Kyiv.