Sir Keir Starmer is due to speak to European leaders on Friday, as the UK’s diplomatic push for peace in Ukraine continues.
A UK minister acknowledged the US expectation for Europe to increase defense spending, following Donald Trump's suggestion that the US might not defend allies who don't meet spending targets. This comes as Keir Starmer engages with European leaders amidst the UK's diplomatic efforts for peace in Ukraine, with Zelensky insisting Russia halt attacks for progress. Trump had previously expressed uncertainty about defending or being defended by NATO countries not meeting spending targets and briefly paused military aid to Ukraine. Talks between Kyiv and Washington are resuming, and around 20 countries discussed a "coalition of the willing." The UK Defence Secretary has discussed the matter with his US counterpart.
