British Foreign Secretary David Cameron visited Washington to advocate for unlocking financial support for Ukraine, following a meeting with Donald Trump in Florida. Cameron emphasized the importance of victory for Ukraine in enhancing American and European security. However, Trump and aligned lawmakers are hesitant to provide aid to Kyiv, causing a delay in Congress.
The U.K.'s Foreign Office confirmed the meeting, stating that it is customary for government officials to engage with opposition leaders of allied nations during election years. Secretary of State Antony Blinken previously met with U.K. Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, a potential future prime minister.
Cameron and Trump have had differing views in the past, with Cameron criticizing Trump's proposal to ban Muslims from the U.S. during his initial presidential campaign. Cameron, who opposed the U.K.'s 2016 Brexit referendum, resigned after voters opted to leave the EU, a decision supported by Trump.
In Washington, Cameron aims to persuade U.S. lawmakers to approve a new aid package for Ukraine, stressing the implications for Western security. He plans to meet with influential figures such as Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and hopes to engage with House Speaker Mike Johnson.
A $60 billion military aid package for Ukraine is facing obstacles in the House of Representatives, with populist conservatives and mainstream Republicans seeking concessions on border security before extending support.
Cameron highlighted the significance of Ukraine's success and Putin's failure for American and European security, emphasizing the need to deter aggression and uphold countries' sovereignty. He also intends to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict and efforts to establish a sustainable cease-fire and provide aid to Gaza with U.S. officials.
The U.K. is dispatching a Royal Navy ship to the eastern Mediterranean to support the establishment of a maritime aid corridor between Cyprus and a temporary U.S.-built pier in Gaza.
