UK defence secretary aims to strengthen transatlantic ties amid Ukraine conflict
Defence Secretary John Healey will travel to Washington this week for high-level talks with his US counterpart, Pete Hegseth, as the UK continues its efforts to bridge transatlantic divisions over Ukraine’s peace plan.
The bilateral meeting, set to take place on Thursday, is expected to focus heavily on the ongoing war, following recent disagreements between the US and its European allies. The UK and France have pledged to work closely with Ukraine to develop a strategy for ending the conflict before presenting it to the United States.
Ahead of his visit, Mr Healey reaffirmed the strength of the UK-US partnership, describing it as “strong as ever.” He emphasised the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security, adding:
“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.
“It is crucial that the UK and Europe step up further to take more responsibility for our security, and we are doing so.”
Bridging the transatlantic divide on Ukraine
Tensions have grown in recent weeks over how best to approach the conflict, with President Donald Trump’s interventions further complicating diplomatic efforts. The US leader recently labelled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a “dictator,” exacerbating friction between the two nations.
The situation worsened last week when a proposed minerals deal between the US and Ukraine, which Trump had suggested would act as a deterrent against Russian aggression, collapsed following a heated exchange between the two leaders in the Oval Office.
In response, the UK and France have taken a leading role in pushing forward diplomatic efforts. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently affirmed Britain’s commitment to working with Ukraine to develop a peace framework before engaging in further discussions with Washington.
Mr Healey reinforced this message, stating:
“The Prime Minister was clear following his meetings over the past week that we will continue our dialogue with friends and allies to secure a path to a lasting peace in Ukraine.
“We will advance that work in Washington over the coming days.”
Strengthening UK-US defence cooperation
Beyond Ukraine, Mr Healey’s discussions with Secretary Hegseth are expected to cover broader defence cooperation between the two nations, particularly in relation to joint security initiatives such as the Aukus programme. The defence pact between the UK, the US, and Australia is aimed at bolstering Indo-Pacific security, with Britain playing a key role in submarine development and military technology sharing.
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Mr Healey’s trip comes at a time of growing concern over global security threats, including rising tensions with China, Russia’s continued aggression, and instability in the Middle East. The UK government has been vocal in its support for NATO and the need for greater European military self-sufficiency.
He reiterated that “cementing our ties as NATO allies” remains a priority for both national and economic security.
Marking a historic US military anniversary
In addition to diplomatic meetings, Mr Healey will also attend a reception on Wednesday at the British ambassador’s residence to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. The event will serve as a symbolic reminder of the longstanding military partnership between the two nations.
As the UK looks to navigate shifting alliances and geopolitical challenges, Mr Healey’s visit to Washington will be a crucial test of Britain’s ability to influence US policy on Ukraine and beyond. The discussions in the coming days will not only shape the next phase of transatlantic cooperation but could also have a significant impact on the future of European security and stability.
