Biden and Starmer Discuss Ukraine's Military Strategy Amid Rising Tensions with Russia
US President Joe Biden downplayed threats of war from Moscow as he met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss Ukraine's military capabilities on September 13. When asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin's warning regarding the potential consequences of allowing Ukraine to use Western-supplied long-range missiles against Russian targets, Biden expressed indifference, stating, "I don’t think much about Vladimir Putin." Despite Biden's reassurances, Starmer aimed to persuade him to support sending British Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine, which could target deeper inside Russia, highlighting the gravity of the ongoing conflict.
Starmer emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine in what he called a "vital war of freedom," as Ukraine continues to face significant challenges against Russian forces. While Biden affirmed that it was evident Putin would not succeed, he was expected to deny Ukraine's request for US-made ATACMS missiles, which officials believe would not substantially change the situation on the battlefield. Concerns over depleting US military stocks also influenced this decision.
The meeting, which was Starmer's second visit to the White House since taking office, was not anticipated to produce major announcements, according to National Security Council spokesman John Kirby. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Western allies to provide more military support, critiquing their hesitation in helping Ukraine defend against incoming missiles, similar to assistance given to Israel. Zelensky plans to meet Biden later this month to present his plan for concluding the war.
Tensions escalated further as Russia revoked the accreditation of six British diplomats, accusing them of spying, following warnings from Russian officials about the potential ramifications of supplying long-range weapons to Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated Moscow's stern stance, while Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia warned that allowing Ukraine access to such weapons would draw NATO into a direct conflict with a nuclear power.
As the US approaches a contentious presidential election in November, both Ukraine and its allies are apprehensive about how the outcome might affect US policies regarding the war. With Biden's administration supporting Ukraine, there is uncertainty over future military aid, especially as Trump has historically shown favorable sentiments towards Putin and indicated a desire to quickly negotiate peace—even at the risk of compromising Ukrainian territorial integrity. Vice President Kamala Harris has pledged continued support for Ukraine, stressing the need to remain steadfast in the face of aggression.
The geopolitical landscape remains precarious as Western nations navigate the complex dynamics of supporting Ukraine while managing the threat posed by a nuclear-armed Russia, highlighting the delicate balance of power in the ongoing conflict.
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