The Daily Star Ireland
Taoiseach Micheál Martin is set to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer this evening in the UK. The leaders will share a dinner ahead of the inaugural UK-Ireland summit scheduled for tomorrow in northwest England.
Discussions are expected to cover various bilateral topics, including recent initiatives to establish peace in Ukraine. Since assuming office last summer, Prime Minister Starmer has prioritized resetting UK-Irish relations as a key objective of his administration.
The upcoming summit, a first of its kind, will see participation from multiple cabinet members of both governments. The agenda focuses on enhancing cooperation in areas such as energy, trade, security, and culture.
Prime Minister Starmer, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, is actively working to form a “coalition of the willing” to deploy 30,000 troops to Ukraine. This initiative aims to bolster defense efforts amid growing concerns over U.S. commitment to European security.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Starmer convened a meeting with international NATO leaders to discuss strengthening European defense mechanisms.
Both leaders are likely to reflect on their recent engagements with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and evaluate EU strategies to support the war-torn nation. Relations with the United States are also anticipated to be a topic of discussion, especially considering Prime Minister Starmer’s recent visit to the White House and Taoiseach Martin’s upcoming meeting with President Trump.
Earlier this week, President Trump announced a pause on military aid to Kyiv, signaling a shift towards a more conciliatory approach to Russia.
European nations are currently striving to increase defense spending and support for Ukraine amidst uncertainties regarding U.S. commitment to European defense.
President Macron is scheduled to address the nation at approximately 7 pm Irish time. In a post on X, he stated: “In this moment of uncertainty, where the world is confronted by large challenges, I will address you tonight.”
EU leaders are preparing for a special summit focused on defense and the situation in Ukraine, set for tomorrow.
France is actively working to reestablish ties between the U.S. and Ukraine to achieve a “lasting and robust peace,” according to government spokeswoman Sophie Primas. She noted that France and Europe are endeavoring to restore connections between the United States and Ukraine.
France and Britain have proposed a partial one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine, focusing on halting attacks on air, sea, and energy infrastructure, while excluding ground combat
President Macron is considering a joint visit to Washington alongside Ukrainian President Zelensky and Prime Minister Starmer. Sophie Primas mentioned that this potential visit aims to strengthen diplomatic efforts and support for Ukraine.
