UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting Calls for Support for Ukraine During Washington Visit

UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting visited the American capital to ease tensions flared by the restriction of Starlink access and to ensure that the Washington administration continues its support for Ukraine.

Washington Visit and Contacts

UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting delivered a speech at the Center for Strategic and International Studies before meeting with his US counterpart Pete Hegseth. In his speech, Streeting emphasized that supporting Ukraine serves Washington's long-term interests and pointed out that this situation also holds a commercial opportunity.

Statements Regarding the Starlink Crisis

Addressing the difficulties of recent days following the US government's decision to limit the Ukrainian military's use of Starlink, Streeting recalled the impact of American support on the war effort. Following the talks, he stated that he received assurance from his counterpart that Starlink access has been restored.

Defence and Security Issues

During the talks between the two ministers, the withdrawal of US military assets from bases in the UK due to the Iranian threat and joint steps to be taken against Houthi attacks in Yemen were also discussed. However, the topic of Ukraine remained the most urgent and priority item on the agenda.

Widening Geopolitical Tensions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had expressed disappointment over the restriction of the Starlink service and US threats to cut off intelligence sharing. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham also met with Zelenskyy in London, reiterating his country's support.