Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, is set to visit the United States next week for discussions that could significantly impact his leadership, particularly against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

As tensions mount between Europe and the US concerning the origins of the war and the most effective strategies for resolution, Starmer has opted not to directly challenge former President Donald Trump over his recent critical remarks about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Starmer's trip comes amid a backdrop of escalating discord, which was exacerbated when Trump criticized both Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron for their roles in failing to contribute to efforts aimed at ending the war.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump stated, "They haven’t done anything.

Macron is a friend of mine, and I’ve met with the prime minister, he’s a very nice guy … [but] nobody’s done anything."

These comments coincided with widespread condemnation from various European leaders.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described Trump's statements as "wrong and dangerous," while Zelenskyy accused the former president of residing within a "disinformation bubble."

As Starmer and Macron prepare to convene in Washington, they aim to address the current state of transatlantic relations, which are at a low point.

Macron has indicated his intention to deliver a forthright message to Trump regarding the importance of not appearing weak in front of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He stated, "I will tell him: deep down you cannot be weak in the face of President Putin.

It’s not you, it’s not what you’re made of and it’s not in your interests."

In contrast, UK officials have suggested that Starmer intends to focus on future possibilities rather than revisiting contentious past comments.

A British official remarked, "We want to focus on the future rather than relitigating any of the disputes there have been in recent days."

Starmer's visit coincides with growing disquiet among European leaders regarding their exclusion from discussions between the US and Russia and the tone of Trump’s recent comments about Ukraine.

Trump has made erroneous claims about Ukraine starting the war in 2022 and has warned Zelenskyy to act quickly to retain control over his country.

In an effort to mitigate the fallout from Trump's remarks, Keith Kellogg, a former envoy on Ukraine, referred to Zelenskyy as "the embattled and courageous leader of a nation at war." However, there is concern among western officials that Trump's recent rhetoric has undermined the unity of the pro-Ukrainian alliance among Western democracies.

During the upcoming meeting, while Macron is expected to adopt a confrontational stance, British officials have indicated that Starmer's approach will be more conciliatory.

"Macron will be there representing the European Union," said one official, adding, "Our role is slightly different – we want to play a bridging role between the US and Europe."

Starmer's strategy has generally involved sidestepping Trump's frequent controversies and concentrating on the overarching objectives of safeguarding Ukraine and preventing trade tariffs.

This diplomatic approach may be tested as the UK prepares to announce new sanctions against Russia and address the contentious UN discussion regarding the accusation of Russian invasion.

The UK Prime Minister plans to emphasize the need for increased trade between the UK and the US, as current discussions may include potential military support from the US for any European troops assigned to enforce a peace deal in Ukraine.

Starmer has expressed the willingness of the UK to contribute soldiers to a European force, provided there is a US commitment for safety assurances.

As part of the broader strategic defense review, Starmer's administration has committed to raising defense spending to 2.5% of GDP, although no definitive timeline or approach regarding implementation has been disclosed.

John Healey, the Defense Secretary, is expected to provide further details as discussions progress.

While some have advised Starmer to adopt a more assertive stance, others like HR McMaster have urged a clear message to be delivered to Russia.

McMaster emphasized that the priority should be preventing any concessions to Putin, stating, "Whatever you do, do not give Putin what he wants upfront."