Janice R. Andrews
French President Macron and British PM Starmer are visiting Washington to urge President Trump to maintain support for Ukraine amid concerns over potential U.S.-Russia peace talks. The visits come as European allies worry about Trump’s alignment with Russian positions and the impact on continental stability.
Macron, scheduled for Monday talks with Trump, has taken a firm stance, warning against showing weakness toward Putin and emphasizing that Russian control of Ukraine would make Moscow “unstoppable.” His visit follows emergency discussions in Paris exploring contingencies if U.S. backing diminishes.
Starmer, who arrives Thursday, is adopting a more measured diplomatic approach. While defending Ukraine’s leadership and sovereignty, he aims to bridge U.S.-European differences. He recently reinforced Britain’s commitment to Ukraine in discussions with President Zelenskyy.
Both leaders seek to secure U.S. participation in a new European security framework for Ukraine, which would include a European “reassurance force” near Ukraine’s borders with American air support. They plan to address Trump’s NATO concerns by highlighting their increased defense spending commitments.
The visits will also cover trade issues, particularly regarding potential U.S. tariffs. British diplomacy may include extending King Charles III’s invitation to Trump for a state visit, using diplomatic tradition to strengthen bilateral ties.
These diplomatic efforts could significantly influence both transatlantic relations and Ukraine’s future security landscape.
