UK, France, Germany discuss Ukraine peace on 26 Dec

Downing Street says Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with France’s Emmanuel Macron and Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz on 26 December 2025. The readout reaffirmed support for a “just and lasting peace” for Ukraine, called this a crucial moment for Euro‑Atlantic security, and promised continued coordination with allies. That framing matters because it signals both urgency and unity. (Source: 10 Downing Street.)

If you’re wondering what “Euro‑Atlantic” actually means, think of the security community that links Europe and North America through NATO and its partnerships. When UK officials refer to Euro‑Atlantic security, they’re talking about the health of that alliance family and the countries that work with it.

“Just and lasting peace” isn’t a throwaway line. In recent European Council texts, leaders define it as a settlement grounded in the UN Charter and international law, respecting Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and pairing any agreement with long‑term security for Ukraine. When you see the phrase, read it as a checklist of legal and security standards, not a vague hope.

The readout also says talks should keep making progress “in the coming days”. That usually means a diplomatic window is open, while support continues in parallel. It is not a signal that a deal is done; it is a nudge to keep momentum without easing pressure. (Source: 10 Downing Street.)

For practical purposes, “co‑ordinating with partners and allies” points to NATO, the EU and G7 channels where aid, sanctions and diplomacy are aligned. Through 2025, EU leaders have repeated the same twin track: sustained support for Kyiv alongside work towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

A short timeline helps. Russia launched its full‑scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, reshaping Europe’s security debate and triggering sustained international support for Kyiv. Keep that date in mind when you see leaders emphasise Euro‑Atlantic security-it is the reference point for today’s decisions.

What should you watch next? Look for follow‑up statements from London, Paris and Berlin, and for Brussels language on security guarantees that would sit alongside any settlement. The European Council has already said a credible peace needs robust, long‑term guarantees for Ukraine’s defence.

Reading official language is a useful skill. “Unwavering commitment” tells you support will not pause just because talks are happening; “co‑ordinate with partners and allies” reminds you that NATO and EU alignment is part of the work. Track these phrases over time and you’ll spot when policy shifts-and when it doesn’t. Also worth noting for your notes: Friedrich Merz has served as Germany’s chancellor since 6 May 2025 after a second parliamentary vote, which helps explain Berlin’s prominent role in current diplomacy.