UK meeting hosts military leaders discussing Ukraine defense plans
On Thursday, military leaders from approximately 30 nations convened in Britain to deliberate on the potential operational dynamics of the "coalition of the willing" in relation to future defense efforts for Ukraine.

The United Kingdom has taken a prominent role in rallying Western backing for Ukraine, alongside France, particularly after U.S. President Donald Trump surprised Europe by initiating discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Starmer emphasized that previous gatherings of international political figures had reached an agreement that "we need to work together to ensure that any deal put in place is defended."
He added, "What's happening here is turning that political intention into reality. The concept into the plans, whether that's in relation to what might happen on the sea, air or on the ground."
According to a source from Downing Street cited by The Guardian, Starmer's remarks indicate a transition into a more operational phase.
"The purpose of these security arrangements is to make it clear to Russia that any breach of an agreement will carry severe consequences," Starmer stated to reporters following the meeting. "That is why U.S. involvement will be necessary," he further noted.
Attendees from various countries included representatives from France, Poland, the Netherlands, Romania, Canada, Australia, and the United States. Nevertheless, the U.S. has yet to commit to supporting any military presence in Ukraine.
In reaction, the Kremlin accused European nations of pursuing "militarization" instead of seeking peace.
"Europe has embarked on a militarization of itself and has turned into somewhat of a war party," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked to reporters.
Additionally, Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov announced that the next round of Russia-U.S. talks regarding Ukraine is set for Monday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Earlier this week, Trump and Putin spoke by phone and agreed on an initial step toward peace in Ukraine. However, Kyiv has reiterated its demand for direct participation in peace negotiations, while major European nations have reaffirmed their support for Ukraine's position.
Ramin Sohrabi contributed to this article for TROIB News