Talks focus on military support, humanitarian aid, and Middle East tensions

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has arrived in the United States for discussions with President Joe Biden, primarily addressing the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Their meeting at the White House on Friday follows urgent calls from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for permission to use Western-provided long-range missiles on Russian territory—a contentious issue for Western allies due to fears of escalating tensions.

This visit, taking place just two months before the US presidential election, underscores the UK’s commitment to diplomacy and international security. It follows a recent trip by Foreign Secretary David Lammy to Kyiv alongside US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, where they announced further financial aid packages. These include £600 million from the UK and $717 million from the US aimed at humanitarian support, energy needs, and stabilisation efforts in Ukraine.

The sanctions imposed on Iran by the UK and US, accusing Tehran of supplying ballistic missiles to Russia, have also intensified the diplomatic context of these talks. Both leaders have pledged to stand firm against such threats and support Ukraine’s efforts to resist Russian aggression.

Sir Keir’s discussions with President Biden will also touch on the ongoing crisis in Gaza, seeking potential progress towards a ceasefire and the release of hostages amidst a complex and volatile conflict. This marks the second trip for Sir Keir to the US as Prime Minister, following his White House visit shortly after the Nato summit, which took place days after Labour’s election victory.