Sir Keir Starmer and fellow European leaders have urged Donald Trump to stand up to the “bully” Vladimir Putin as they digest the potential consequences of the historic Republican election victory in the US.
Volodymyr Zelensky made a desperate appeal at the European Political Community (EPC) summit in Budapest for leaders to continue their support for Ukraine in its war with Russia amid fears that Mr Trump will try to force a deal involving concessions.
It came as Sir Keir faces increasing pressure to prioritise a new post-Brexit defence pact with the EU, with concerns growing that Mr Trump may also dilute support for Nato and focus US military objectives elsewhere.
In his first term, Mr Trump made a point of threatening to withdraw support from Nato unless other member states began spending more on defence. And during the presidential campaign he quipped in one speech about welcoming a Russian invasion of one country which did not contribute enough.
To add to the tensions hanging over the summit, host Viktor Orban – Hungary’s prime minister – is Mr Trump’s closest European ally and has been described as pro-Putin, pushing to end the war by seeking compromise with Russia.
The EPC summit was the first time international leaders had gathered since Mr Trump’s remarkable victory, in which Republicans also seized control of the Senate.
This story is from the November 08, 2024 edition of The Independent.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 08, 2024 edition of The Independent.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Russian oil depot set ablaze by Ukrainian drone strikes
Ukraine has targeted Russian energy facilities and a big oil refinery that feeds Vladimir Putin’s war machine in multiple waves of drone strikes, Kyiv has said.
Hamas to release Israeli trio as ceasefire deal continues
Hamas is set to release three Israelis held captive in Gaza, including a woman, a female soldier and an 80-year-old man, as part of a ceasefire deal with Israel, a group representing the families of the hostages has said.
Lions contenders hanker for a tick on Farrell's checklist
The quadrennial assembly of Britain and Ireland’s best and brightest will add yet more meaning to the Six Nations as Lions selection looms large over the tournament.
Quick U-turn sees Reeves.agree to publish tax return
Rachel Reeves is set to publish a tax return, in a U-turn hours after saying she did not have any plans to do so.
At least 30 killed in crushes at Indian Mela pilgrimage
At least 30 people have been killed and dozens more injured in crowd crushes at the Maha Kumbh Mela in India, where millions have gathered to bathe at the confluence of sacred rivers.
Victory keeps City's hopes alive in Champions League
A manager defined by finishing first may never be so relieved to come 22nd. Pep Guardiola was 45 minutes from abject humiliation.
Chancellor's growth push runs into heavy turbulence
Optimistic economic growth vision suffers a short-term hit
Student accused of raping 10 women 'kept souvenirs'
A PhD student accused of being a persistent sexual predator” allegedly filmed himself raping multiple women while they were unconscious, a court has heard.
Lloyds group to close 136 high street bank branches
Lloyds Banking Group is to shut 136 more high street branches as it accelerates plans to cut costs and digitise the bank. It will close 61 Lloyds, 61 Halifax and 14 Bank of Scotland branches between May this year and March 2026.
A dream return home turns into a nightmare wasteland
Nedal Hamdouna, a Palestinian journalist, describes the joy he felt in being able to return to Beit Lahia in northern Gaza and the pain of knowing just how much needs to be rebuilt
