Sir Keir Starmer has reiterated his call for a US security guarantee in Ukraine to deter Vladimir Putin from further aggression, as he prepares to meet Donald Trump.
Speaking aboard his flight to Washington, Sir Keir expressed hope that the UK-US relationship would continue to strengthen. However, the two leaders appear divided on the significance of US security commitments to Ukraine as part of any peace agreement.
Sir Keir confirmed that discussions on the potential deployment of British troops to Ukraine were ongoing. He emphasized the necessity of a US "backstop" but refrained from specifying its exact form. "The configuration of that backstop is still under intense discussion," he said. "I'm clear on the principles, but I won’t get ahead of myself on the details."
In contrast, Trump has played down the idea of security guarantees. "I'm not going to make security guarantees beyond very much," he stated. "We're going to have Europe do that because Europe is the next-door neighbor."
However, Trump did acknowledge the proposed US-Ukraine minerals deal, describing it as "great" for Ukraine. He suggested that US involvement in the region would create an automatic security presence. "We will be on the land, and that way, nobody will be messing around with our people," he said.
The extent of European leaders' requests for US security support remains unclear, as does the level of American military presence that may be tied to the minerals deal.
Sir Keir stressed the need for lasting peace in Ukraine, not just a ceasefire. "Without a backstop, Putin will simply bide his time and strike again," he warned. "His ambitions regarding Ukraine are obvious to all."
Speaking at a reception at the UK Ambassador’s residence in Washington, Sir Keir emphasized his desire for a "new partnership" with the United States, stating, "Our best days lie ahead."
On domestic policy, he contrasted his approach with Elon Musk’s dramatic "chainsaw" stunt at the CPAC conference, saying, "That’s not my style, but we are cutting bureaucracy and red tape."
Lord Mandelson, the British ambassador, described Trump as a "very consequential president" and highlighted the challenges facing democratic nations. He also underscored the strong US-UK trade relationship, remarking, "One thing we don’t need to fight over is trade—it’s fair and balanced."
Amid these discussions, trade tensions persist. Tariffs on steel imports to the US are set to take effect in March, and Trump is considering additional import taxes to protect American businesses.
Following Sir Keir’s visit, Trump will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has called the minerals deal preliminary and continues to seek firm US security assurances. "Without security guarantees from the US, we won’t have a ceasefire—nothing will work," Zelensky said.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed optimism about a potential agreement, stating, "If US interests are on the ground in Ukraine, that’s the best security guarantee the Ukrainians can have."
With tensions high over Ukraine, the Middle East, and trade, Sir Keir has remained cautious ahead of Thursday’s White House meetings. While he aims to strengthen US-UK ties, the unpredictability of Trump’s presidency poses challenges.
Asked whether he trusts Trump, Sir Keir responded, "Yes, I have a good relationship with him. We’ve spoken, we’ve met, and our two countries share a special relationship forged through history, war, and trade."
On Trump’s stance toward Russia, Sir Keir remained diplomatic: "The president has been clear about wanting peace. The question is how to ensure it's a lasting peace."
Former Prime Minister Theresa May urged Sir Keir to reinforce to Trump that Russia is the aggressor in Ukraine. Speaking in the House of Lords, she argued, "Defending Europe strengthens America’s security. Ukraine is fighting for its sovereignty—principles we must all uphold."
Meanwhile, Sir Keir has announced an increase in UK defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, a move seen as an effort to align with Trump’s calls for greater European defense contributions. However, the plan involves cuts to the foreign aid budget, drawing criticism from charities and some MPs.
Lord Sedwill, former UK security adviser, defended the decision, telling BBC Radio 4, "By showing we're committed to defense, we encourage Europe to step up, which helps keep the US engaged, even under a Trump presidency."
Beyond Ukraine, discussions will also cover trade and artificial intelligence. Downing Street seeks "further integration" between the UK and US technology sectors.
This visit marks a pivotal moment in Sir Keir’s first year as prime minister, with significant challenges ahead in navigating the complexities of US-UK relations under Trump’s leadership.
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