Macron Considers Trip to the US with Zelensky and Starmer
French President Emmanuel Macron is contemplating a diplomatic visit to Washington alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to meet with US President Donald Trump, as stated by government spokeswoman Sophie Primas this morning. Primas addressed reporters following the weekly French Cabinet meeting, highlighting the potential significance of this trip.
This development follows Trump’s assertion that Ukraine is prepared to engage in negotiations and finalize a minerals agreement after receiving a letter from Zelensky. In a recent address to a joint session of Congress, Trump emphasized his commitment to ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating that he is “working tirelessly” to achieve peace. He expressed appreciation for Zelensky’s letter, which he received just moments prior.
- Starmer is scheduled to face Prime Minister’s Questions shortly – watch live here
- Macron is considering traveling to the US with Zelensky and Starmer
- Trump announces Zelensky is ‘ready to come to the negotiating table’
Starmer to Address Parliament During Prime Minister’s Questions
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will soon appear in the House of Commons for the weekly Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs). He is expected to address recent developments concerning the conflict in Ukraine, particularly in light of Defence Secretary’s upcoming trip to Washington after Zelensky indicated his willingness to collaborate with President Trump. Other pressing topics may include cuts to the foreign aid budget, which will finance an increase in defense spending, protests against changes to inheritance tax regulations for farmers, the Chancellor’s forthcoming spring statement, and broader concerns regarding the cost of living and the National Health Service (NHS).
Starmer was seen departing from 10 Downing Street in central London ahead of the session.
Royal Navy Monitors Russian Naval Movements
A Royal Navy warship has been actively monitoring a Russian task group as it navigated through the English Channel and the North Sea. HMS Somerset shadowed the Russian corvette Boikiy for three days while it escorted the merchant vessel Baltic Leader on its return journey from Syria. A spokesperson from the Royal Navy stated that the British Type 23 frigate employed its sophisticated sensors and radar systems to track Russian movements, even deploying a Merlin helicopter to gather aerial intelligence.
The operation commenced on March 1 as the Russian warship traveled southward through the North Sea and English Channel to rendezvous with the Baltic Leader, after which HMS Somerset maintained its watch for the return journey. Commander Joel Roberts, commanding officer of HMS Somerset, commented on the ship’s extensive experience in escorting Russian vessels and praised the professionalism of the crew in remaining vigilant while integrating with NATO allies.
Greenland PM Responds to Trump’s Comments on Self-Determination
Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede firmly rejected President Trump’s assertion that Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, could become part of the United States. Egede stated, “We do not want to be Americans, nor Danes; we are Kalaallit [Greenlanders]. The Americans and their leader must understand that.” His comments were made in response to Trump’s recent reiteration of interest in acquiring Greenland, emphasizing the importance of self-determination for the Greenlandic people.
The Greenland government is currently in a caretaker phase ahead of elections scheduled for March 11, where independence aspirations will be a central theme. Denmark’s foreign minister acknowledged Trump’s recognition of Greenland’s right to self-determination in his speech to Congress, suggesting that this acknowledgment is significant.
UK and US Relationship: Perspectives from Former Diplomats
Dame Karen Pierce, the former UK ambassador to the US, expressed agreement with Sir Keir Starmer’s assertion regarding the indispensable nature of the US to the UK. During a discussion at the International Relations and Defence Committee, she emphasized the unique relationship between the two nations, stating, “It’s very much in the UK’s interests that America prevails as the major power.” Pierce argued that the UK and US share fundamental values that distinguish their alliance from others.
Meanwhile, former British ambassador to the US, Sir David Manning, reflected on the evolving nature of the UK-US relationship, indicating concerns that the traditional basis of trust and shared values is under strain. He pointed to the recent conflict in Ukraine as a clear illustration of this shift.
Concerns Over China’s Global Role
Former Tory MP Bob Seely warned that if Trump compromises Ukraine’s interests, it could embolden China to take aggressive actions towards Taiwan. He highlighted the economic implications of such a scenario, stressing the need for the UK to reassess its dependency on China amid rising tensions.
Seely criticized current UK policies, arguing that they fail to address the long-term security threats posed by China and the need for a diverse supply chain.
Trump’s Approach to Global Leadership
Republican activist Matt Schlapp expressed his belief that under Trump’s leadership, global adversaries are deterred. He remarked that during Trump’s presidency, there were no Russian invasions, and emphasized the importance of strong leadership in maintaining international stability.
In the context of ongoing conflicts, Schlapp suggested that European nations should take greater responsibility for military expenditures and not rely solely on American taxpayers to fund military efforts.
Calls for a Wealth Tax in the UK
Labour donor Dale Vince has advocated for a wealth tax, arguing that the government should focus on a “fairer tax system” rather than cutting essential services. He proposed that imposing a small tax on individuals with significant wealth could generate substantial revenue to address funding shortfalls.
Vince’s comments come as Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares for her spring statement amidst rising economic challenges, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to taxation and public funding.
US Perspectives on Ukraine Conflict
Republican consultant Scott Jennings noted that while Americans support Ukraine, there is growing fatigue regarding ongoing military involvement in the conflict. He emphasized the importance of reaching a resolution and indicated that Trump’s recent actions may signal a shift in diplomatic efforts.
Future Discussions on Iran’s Nuclear Program
The Kremlin has announced that future talks between Russia and the United States will include discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, an area of concern that could influence geopolitical dynamics. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov highlighted Russia’s commitment to resolving these issues through diplomatic means.
Starmer’s Leadership on Ukraine
Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith commended Starmer’s efforts in fostering dialogue between the US and Ukraine, asserting that meaningful peace can only be achieved through direct negotiations involving the Ukrainian leadership.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Geopolitical Landscape
The complex interplay of international relations continues to evolve, with key players like Trump, Zelensky, and Macron navigating a landscape fraught with challenges and opportunities. As discussions progress, the implications of their decisions will resonate beyond their immediate contexts, shaping the future of global diplomacy.
