According to the i, there is a sense of panic and disbelief across Europe following Donald Trump’s indication of a shift in the United States’ relationship with NATO. Intelligence sources inform the publication that by agreeing to negotiate Ukraine’s future with Vladimir Putin, the US President has given the Russian leader the “upper hand”.
The Daily Express reports that President Zelensky has urgently appealed to the international community not to abandon Ukraine in favor of Russia. The Guardian’s front page underscores remarks by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, stating that “everything is on the table” during discussions about Ukraine’s future. The Sun’s main editorial issues a warning, suggesting that Russia may be gearing up for conflict with NATO, prompting the requirement for us to “rearm and recruit”.
Sources within the government have disclosed to the Times that the US could potentially offer air support for European forces if they are tasked with overseeing any peace agreement in Ukraine. The report indicates this assistance, likely in the form of air defense missiles, would be exchanged for rare earth minerals from Kyiv. The Times also suggests that a division has surfaced among Ukraine’s allies regarding Trump’s discussions with Putin, noting that Defence Secretary John Healey was more cautious than his European counterparts, asserting on Thursday, “we mustn’t get ahead of ourselves”.
In an interview with the Financial Times, French President Emmanuel Macron characterizes Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House as an “electro-shock”. He asserts that European nations must strengthen their defense and economic strategies in response to a generational shift in US foreign policy favoring Asia. On the topic of Ukraine, he cautions that a “peace as a capitulation” scenario would be “bad news for everyone”, including the United States.
The Daily Mail focuses on Rachel Reeves’ CV, noting that the Chancellor is under pressure to “come clean” about her previous employment. The report states that she has “come out fighting” after BBC News revealed a probe into her expenses prior to her departure from Halifax Bank of Scotland. A spokesperson for Reeves has informed the Mail that she is unaware of any investigation and insists that all expense claims were submitted and approved correctly. The front page of the Daily Star humorously depicts Rachel Reeves as Pinocchio, complete with a satirical resume claiming she invented the World Wide Web and walked on the moon.
Military leaders, as reported by the Daily Telegraph, have cautioned Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer that proposals to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP “won’t touch the sides”. Sources indicate that the government’s reluctance to commit to a higher allocation has raised concerns among military officials that the armed forces may struggle to meet existing objectives. A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence explains that the ongoing strategic defense review will thoroughly evaluate the threats facing the UK and the necessary capabilities.
The Daily Mirror reports that the King is set to tour Canada and the United States to enhance transatlantic relationships. A source informs the paper that Americans have a strong affection for the Royal Family, making it an excellent opportunity to reinforce the special relationship. While Buckingham Palace has not commented, the Mirror suggests the visit is anticipated next year, likely in the spring, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain.
