British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed hopes that a ceasefire in Ukraine could be announced by the summer.

Source: Starmer in an interview with The Telegraph.

Starmer's direct quote: "We are currently engaged in intensive negotiations.

Ultimately, I always remember that it is Ukraine that must decide these matters – not others deciding on behalf of Ukraine. This is a matter for Ukraine. And Russia must come to the negotiating table for an unconditional ceasefire".

According to the publication, Starmer also expressed hope that a ceasefire could be declared by summer.

He reiterated calls for security guarantees from the U.S. for British and other Western forces planning to be deployed in Ukraine to monitor peace compliance.

The publication adds that Starmer insists Ukraine must have the right to determine the terms of any peace agreement with Russia.

Starmer also refused to support U.S. plans to recognize Crimea as Russian, demanding that Moscow agree to an "unconditional ceasefire".

Starmer's direct quote: "This must be a ceasefire on terms that all parties, including Ukraine, can accept, and it must be a lasting ceasefire.

What I do not want to see is a temporary ceasefire because I am convinced that it will simply leave Russia the means and opportunity to return in the future. They have done this before, and I have no doubt they will do it again".

Reminder: On April 24, the United Kingdom announced a new package of 150 sanctions against Russia.