The UK has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s ongoing aggression, following reports that US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have begun discussions on ending the war.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner insisted Britain’s backing for Kyiv remained “steadfast”, despite Trump’s claims that he and Putin had agreed to “work together, very closely” on bringing the three-year conflict to an end.
Parliament stands United on Ukraine
Speaking to ITV’s Peston, Rayner stressed that the UK Government and “the whole of Parliament” were resolute in their commitment to Ukraine’s defence. When asked about Trump’s statements, she reiterated:
“We’ll continue to support Ukraine, and… the Prime Minister was very clear when he answered that question earlier today in the House.”
The remarks come as speculation grows over Washington’s stance on Ukraine’s future, particularly regarding its bid for NATO membership.
Defence secretary: Ukraine’s future lies in NATO
Defence Secretary John Healey acknowledged that Ukraine’s accession to NATO would “take some time” but reaffirmed that its “rightful place” was within the alliance. He argued that, for now, the priority should be ensuring Ukraine enters any peace negotiations from a position of strength.
Addressing a press conference in Brussels following a summit of global defence leaders, Healey played down suggestions of a divide between the UK and the US, despite comments from US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth that appeared to rule out Ukrainian NATO membership as a means of guaranteeing its security.
Hegseth’s remarks will come as a disappointment to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as NATO expansion requires unanimous approval from all member states. Hours before Trump’s call with Putin, Zelensky warned:
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“Putin is not preparing for peace.”
UK and allies strengthen defence commitment
At NATO’s headquarters in Brussels, Healey joined representatives from over 50 nations, including France, Germany, and the US, at the 26th Ukraine Defence Contact Group summit. The meeting focused on long-term military support for Kyiv and bolstering European contributions to Ukraine’s defence.
Hegseth’s comments reinforced Washington’s position that European allies must take on a larger share of the financial and military burden in supporting Ukraine. He also appeared to rule out deploying US troops as peacekeepers in the event of a ceasefire, suggesting that any such deployment should be a non-NATO mission without Article Five protections.
NATO’s Article Five stipulates that an attack on one member state is considered an attack on the entire alliance, a key provision that Ukraine has sought to benefit from by joining the bloc.
Farage shifts position on NATO membership
Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage signalled his backing for Ukraine’s NATO membership, calling the move “essential”. His comments mark a significant shift from his previous stance, having previously argued that NATO and the EU had “provoked” Russia’s invasion by expanding Western influence into former Soviet territories.
UK’s commitment remains firm amid US uncertainty
The UK’s position remains clear: unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, regardless of the diplomatic manoeuvrings of its allies. While Trump’s negotiations with Putin introduce uncertainty into the geopolitical landscape, Britain continues to stand with Ukraine, ensuring it has the military and diplomatic backing required to defend its future.
