Urgent Diplomatic Mission: France and Britain’s Leaders Visit Washington to Rally Support for Ukraine Against Trump’s Potential Withdrawal

Leaders from France and Britain are visiting Washington this week. They hope to convince President Donald Trump to continue supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing war with Russia.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have different approaches. Starmer wants to act as a bridge between Europe and the U.S., while Macron is more direct in criticizing Trump’s recent comments that align with Russia’s viewpoint.

Both leaders agree that Ukraine’s voice and sovereignty must be included in any peace negotiations. Macron urged Trump not to show weakness in front of Russian President Putin, arguing that it would not benefit the United States.

This visit follows a recent European leaders’ meeting called by Macron to discuss the situation in Ukraine. Trump had previously said that Macron and Starmer haven’t done enough to end the conflict.

Macron plans to tell Trump that American and European interests align. He believes that allowing Russia to take control of Ukraine would cause problems for everyone. Starmer, while being cautious, has supported Ukraine and disagreed with Trump’s views, including labeling President Zelenskyy as a “dictator.”

Starmer recently spoke with Zelenskyy and affirmed the U.K.’s strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty. Some experts suggest that Britain’s role as a link between Europe and the U.S. might be overestimated, as powerful nations often prioritize their own interests.

Both leaders aim to persuade Trump that Ukraine should be part of future discussions about peace. They hope to secure U.S. backing for a plan that includes European troops to help ensure security for Ukraine, with U.S. air support playing a key role in deterring Russia.

Trump has expressed doubts about NATO’s value and has criticized European nations for not contributing enough to their own defense. However, both Macron and Starmer seem willing to increase their military spending. Macron has called for an increased war effort, while Starmer has committed to raising Britain’s defense spending to 2.5% of its GDP.

Trade will also be a topic of discussion. Trump has implemented tariffs on various international goods, and the U.K. hopes its separate status post-Brexit will shield it from these taxes. Starmer intends to address Trump’s controversial ideas about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and U.K. plans regarding the Chagos Islands.

If negotiations stumble, Starmer may rely on the appeal of royalty, as he has an invitation for Trump from King Charles III for a state visit full of British traditions.