British and American defense chiefs discuss Ukraine peace
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British Defence Secretary John Healey is set to meet with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth in Washington this week, with Ukraine peace talks topping their agenda alongside other crucial matters.
As he prepares for his Washington visit, Healey emphasized the enduring strength of the Anglo-American ‘special relationship’, built on shared cultural heritage and democratic values, and fortified during World War II. His schedule includes discussions on the AUKUS nuclear submarine partnership between America, Britain, and Australia, as well as participation in the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary celebrations.
This diplomatic engagement follows recent significant developments, including British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s successful White House meeting with Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s challenging Oval Office encounter, and his subsequent shift toward peace negotiations. Trump continues to condition U.S. aid to Ukraine on Zelensky’s willingness to negotiate, while Sir Keir emerges as a potential mediator between American and European interests, having established an unexpected rapport with the President.
Securing a lasting peace in #Ukraine 🇺🇦 and strengthening #NATO
That's top of the agenda for Defence Secretary @JohnHealey_MP in Washington 🇺🇸 today and tomorrow
He'll meet 🇺🇸 @SecDef to discuss the plan for peace in Ukraine being worked on by the US, UK, France & others pic.twitter.com/rQWkFcehh9
— UK Joint Delegation to NATO (@UKNATO) March 5, 2025
Prior to his Wednesday and Thursday meetings, Healey outlined his objectives in a statement. “Amid a period of growing global instability, the unique and special relationship between the UK and US is as strong as ever, underlined by a shared commitment to freedom and democracy,” he declared, acknowledging Trump’s position that European nations must increase their defense responsibilities.
Healey added: “It is crucial that the UK and Europe step up further to take more responsibility for our security, and we are doing so. In the face of increasing global threats, we are cementing our ties as Nato allies, bolstering our national security and economic security, too.”
The Defence Secretary confirmed his intention to progress efforts toward achieving lasting peace in Ukraine during his Washington visit.
European leaders’ responses to America’s push for increased defense spending have varied considerably. Britain’s approach, as articulated by Healey, accepts this shifting dynamic and encourages fellow NATO members to increase their contributions, despite its own modest defense spending increases.
Trump's New Plan Will Shock NATO To Its Very Core. Europe Is In Full Panic Modehttps://t.co/qqoFp97i4f
— Another Trump War Room (@TrumpMagaChick) March 5, 2025
Conversely, some European leaders are enhancing their military capabilities while publicly distancing themselves from Trump’s policies. Their strategy involves framing their increased defense spending as an act of European independence rather than compliance with American demands.
Healey’s peace initiative comments coincide with Zelensky’s letter to Trump, revealed during a Congressional address, indicating Ukraine’s newfound willingness to negotiate. Trump acknowledged the communication, which stated: “We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. Regarding the agreement on minerals and security, Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time that is convenient for you.”
