US President Donald Trump has dismissed a call from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for military guarantees to Ukraine, emphasizing economic partnerships instead.
During their first meeting at the White House, Starmer praised Trump for his role in advancing peace in Ukraine. However, he expressed concerns that lasting peace would require firm US security commitments.
Trump, however, downplayed the need for military guarantees. \”We are a backstop because we’ll be over there, we’ll be working,\” he said, highlighting the importance of economic ties. \”We’re going to have a lot of people over there.\”
When asked if he trusts Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump responded, \”Trust and verify,\” echoing a famous phrase by former President Ronald Reagan.
Trump suggested that negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict are progressing rapidly. \”It will either be fairly soon, or it won’t be at all,\” he remarked. Starmer cautioned against rushing into any deal that might destabilize Europe. \”We have to get it right,\” he insisted. \”It can’t be peace that rewards the aggressor.\”
The meeting also highlighted ongoing tensions between the US and UK over trade. While both leaders discussed a potential bilateral trade agreement, a comprehensive free trade deal remains elusive. Trump hinted at progress, saying, \”We could very well end up with a real trade deal where the tariffs wouldn’t be necessary. We’ll see.\”
Despite differences, Trump reaffirmed the US commitment to NATO’s mutual defense pact, even if European peacekeepers are deployed in Ukraine. \”I support it. I don’t think we’re going to have any reason for it,\” he stated.
