President Joe Biden is set to discuss important global issues with UK politicians and royalty during his visit to the United Kingdom. The primary topics on the agenda include Ukraine and the environment. Biden will meet with King Charles III to address environmental concerns and hold talks with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine.
While this visit is not a full state visit with all the ceremonial extravagance, the historic backdrop of Windsor Castle emphasizes the significance of the strong trans-Atlantic relationship between the US and the UK. This relationship has been tested by Brexit but has been reinforced by a common stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The discussions between Biden and Sunak will specifically focus on Ukraine, ahead of the NATO summit in Vilnius. NATO leaders had previously stated that Ukraine would eventually become a member, but no concrete road map has been established yet. The UK has been at the forefront of military commitments to support Ukraine, urging the Biden administration to take further action, including providing tanks and F-16 fighter jets.
However, some unease remains among allies about Biden’s decision to provide Ukraine with cluster bombs, which are banned by a convention signed by over 120 countries, including the UK. Sunak recently stated that Britain discourages the use of such weapons. Nonetheless, the UK has refrained from criticizing the lack of support from the US for Defense Secretary Ben Wallace’s bid to become the next head of NATO.
President Biden has expressed concerns about the impact of Brexit on the peace process in Northern Ireland, having visited the region earlier this year. Although some UK Conservatives may be sensitive to perceived slights from the Democrat president, Biden’s meeting with Sunak marks their sixth interaction and highlights their ongoing collaboration.
The meeting with King Charles III presents an opportunity to raise the profile of the 74-year-old monarch, who has long been known for his environmental advocacy. Despite not possessing political power, the British monarch wields considerable soft power due to the mystique associated with the royal family.
Overall, Biden’s visit to the UK underscores the importance of cooperation between these nations on key global issues such as the environment and Ukraine. It demonstrates the continued strength of the trans-Atlantic relationship, despite challenges posed by Brexit and other concerns. The discussions between Biden, UK politicians, and royalty aim to foster unity and address pressing global challenges with shared resolve.
