**UK’s Prime Minister Urges European Leaders to Boost Defense Spending**
The UK’s Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, is set to deliver a strong message to European leaders. He will urge them to face the growing security threats and increase defense spending.
**London Summit to Discuss Ukraine Support**
On March 2, Starmer will meet with leaders from France, Italy, Canada, Germany, and Turkey at a high-stakes security summit in London. The meeting has become more urgent after US President Donald Trump clashed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This raised concerns about future American support for Ukraine.
**US Demands Apology from Zelensky**
The diplomatic fallout between Trump and Zelensky has led to tensions. The Trump administration has privately signaled that it expects a public apology from Zelensky to mend relations.
**UK’s Starmer Plays Diplomatic Role**
In an effort to stabilize the transatlantic alliance, Prime Minister Starmer has taken on a key diplomatic role. He has kept communication open between Trump and European leaders. Starmer personally reached out to both Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron to encourage renewed dialogue.
**European Leaders Push for Peacekeeping Force**
Some NATO leaders have encouraged Zelensky to rebuild ties with Trump, recognizing the US remains Ukraine’s most important military backer. Starmer and Macron are pushing for a European-led security initiative, including a potential peacekeeping force, to safeguard any future ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.
**Challenge Ahead**
The challenge is convincing other European nations to step up their own defense contributions and commit to long-term military assistance. The London summit will be a critical test for European unity.
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