Defence Secretary John Healey is set to hold high-level talks in Washington following Donald Trump’s decision to pause intelligence-sharing with Ukraine.
The discussions, expected to take place on Thursday, will focus on efforts to bridge the growing transatlantic rift over Ukraine’s security. The meeting follows crisis talks in Brussels, where European leaders have sought to reaffirm their support for Kyiv.
Impact on Ukraine’s Military Operations
Trump’s decision to suspend military aid and intelligence-sharing has sparked concerns over Ukraine’s ability to effectively use long-range Western weapons, including HIMARS launchers, and defend itself against incoming Russian attacks.
CIA Director John Radcliffe confirmed the pause, stating on Fox Business Network:
“There has been a pause on the intelligence front.”
Despite the freeze, US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz insisted that talks with Ukraine are ongoing, saying:
“I just got off the phone with my counterpart, the Ukrainian national security adviser. We are having good talks on location for the next round of negotiations, on delegations, on substance. I think we’re going to see movement in very short order.”
Europe Reacts, Macron Raises Nuclear Deterrence
As tensions escalate, French President Emmanuel Macron has signalled that France could take a greater role in European security, including the potential use of its nuclear deterrent.
In a televised address, Macron warned that Russia remains a direct threat to Europe, citing Moscow’s massive military expansion plans:
- 40% of Russia’s state budget is now dedicated to defence.
- Plans include an army expansion of 300,000 troops, alongside 3,000 tanks and 300 fighter jets by 2030.
Macron urged Europe to be prepared for a future where US support is uncertain, stating:
“I want to believe the US will stay by our side, but we must be ready if that is not the case.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the French leader’s stance, saying:
“Peace must be real, not just a word, it cannot mean Ukraine’s capitulation or collapse. Strong and long-term security guarantees are essential for Ukraine, Europe, and the world.”
Trump Signals Potential Shift
Despite last week’s tensions, where a planned minerals agreement between the US and Ukraine collapsed following a heated Oval Office confrontation, Trump has since hinted at a possible resolution.
Speaking in Congress, he revealed that Zelensky had reached out with a letter expressing Kyiv’s willingness to negotiate a deal “at any time.”
Trump responded:
“We’ve had serious discussions with Russia and have received strong signals that they are ready for peace. Wouldn’t that be beautiful?”
UK’s Role in the Talks
Ahead of his trip, John Healey reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to European security, stating:
“It is crucial that the UK and Europe step up further to take more responsibility for our security, and we are doing so.”
He added that Prime Minister Keir Starmer remains committed to engaging with allies to secure a lasting peace in Ukraine, with further diplomatic efforts expected in the coming days.
