The leaders of Britain and France are spearheading a desperate diplomatic drive to shore up Europe’s security, bolster Ukraine’s defenses and ensure the Trump administration doesn’t seek a ceasefire on terms that reward Moscow for invading its neighbor.

Donald Trump has hit out at calls from European leaders for the US to provide security guarantees for any Ukraine peace deal. The US president, who has led the push for a peace deal with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin,

Britain will play a leading role in securing peace in Europe, but must have the “strong” backing of the United States, Sir Keir Starmer has said. During an address in the Commons on Monday, the Prime Minister insisted that the future of Ukraine is vital for our national security.