Biden and Starmer Discuss Ukraine Amid Policy Shifts and Concerns of Escalation

US President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met to discuss loosening restrictions on US and UK weapons for Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have urged the use of long-range missiles against Russia. The leaders' talks occur as both nations adjust to Russia's changing battlefield strategy.

US President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met on Friday to address Ukraine's intensified push to use US and UK-provided weapons against Russia.

The discussions come as the White House signals a potential shift in its policy, reflecting the changing dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Ukrainian officials, during a visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UK Foreign Minister David Lammy, renewed pleas for Western-supplied missiles to target deeper into Russia, arguing it's critical for their defense strategy.

Although the issue topped the leaders' agenda, insiders indicate a formal policy change announcement is unlikely soon.

Zelenskyy continues to press for more long-range weaponry, asserting that targeting Russian bases and launch sites is crucial as Russia intensifies assaults on Ukraine's infrastructure.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and other American officials remain skeptical about the strategic impact of supplying more long-range weapon systems to Ukraine.

The Biden administration expresses growing concerns over strengthened Russia-Iran ties, highlighted by recent transfers of short-range ballistic missiles from Iran to Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)