UK Eyes 'Unique Role' in Ukraine Peace Talks Amid US Shift

Following indications of a shift in US foreign policy priorities, the UK is positioning itself to play a key role in negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the UK could act as a 'bridge' between the EU and the US and is 'ready to play a leading role' in organizing security guarantees for Ukraine. Starmer announced the UK's willingness to send troops to Ukraine if needed and urged European nations to increase defense spending. He is scheduled to visit President Trump in Washington next week. While the UK's military faces challenges, it remains one of Europe's strongest, possessing a nuclear arsenal available to NATO. The UK allocated 2.33% of its GDP to defense last year and has committed £3 billion annually to Ukraine until 2030. Unlike the EU, which faces trade tensions with the US, the UK seeks a more conciliatory approach, hoping to secure exemptions from US import tariffs on specialized steel vital for the US defense industry. Trade between the US and UK is relatively balanced, a factor the UK aims to leverage. Trump has expressed optimism about his upcoming meeting with Starmer.