French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russia’s invasion, pledging to continue their assistance “for as long as necessary.” The meeting took place in Paris during Armistice Day commemorations, marking the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale between France and the UK.
The leaders discussed several key issues, including European security, migration, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine and maintaining a united front against Russian aggression. Downing Street indicated that they are focused on putting Ukraine in the “strongest possible position” heading into the winter.
The meeting comes at a time of uncertainty regarding future US support for Ukraine, particularly in light of potential changes following Donald Trump’s potential return to the presidency. Reports emerged of Trump allegedly speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the Washington Post suggesting Trump urged Putin not to escalate the conflict. The Kremlin denied this claim, stating the report “does not correspond to reality.”
UK Defence Secretary John Healey expressed confidence that the United States would remain supportive of Ukraine, citing strong bipartisan support. He noted that the UK has increased its support, spending more on Ukraine than ever before.
During the Armistice Day commemorations, Starmer and Macron participated in several symbolic gestures, including laying a wreath at Churchill’s statue and reviewing troops around the Arc de Triomphe. Macron personally thanked Starmer for being the first British leader to attend the Champs-Élysées ceremony since Winston Churchill in 1944.
The diplomatic meeting also addressed other critical issues, including:
1. Cooperation on migration and combating human trafficking in the Channel
2. Discussions about European security
3. Prospects for EU-UK relations
4. The humanitarian situation in Gaza
The timing of the meeting is particularly significant as the conflict between Ukraine and Russia intensifies. Recent drone attacks represented the largest such exchanges since the war’s beginning, with Russia claiming to have intercepted 84 Ukrainian drones across six regions.
Meanwhile, questions persist about potential shifts in international support for Ukraine. Trump has previously criticized NATO members for insufficient defense spending and suggested a potentially different approach to supporting Ukraine.
The UK is considering increasing its defense spending from 2.3% to 2.5% of national income, though no specific timeline has been provided. Treasury Minister Darren Jones did not confirm whether this increase would be implemented before the next potential election in 2029.
The meeting between Starmer and Macron underscores the continued commitment of European allies to supporting Ukraine and maintaining a united stance against Russian aggression, despite uncertainties surrounding future US involvement.
