British premier discusses boosting NATO defenses around Greenland in call with Macron, Merz

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday held a joint call with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, continuing discussions on strengthening NATO security around Greenland.

In a readout seen by British media, Downing Street said: "The leaders began by reflecting on the strong unity in support of Ukraine at Tuesday’s meeting, and the good progress made on next steps. They welcomed the ongoing close coordination with the US to secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine."

The leaders also addressed Russia’s ongoing attacks in Ukraine. "Russia’s ongoing attacks in Ukraine, including of the use of an Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile in Western Ukraine this morning, were escalatory and unacceptable, the leaders agreed," No 10 said.

Starmer said: "It was clear Russia was using fabricated allegations to justify the attack."

The discussion then turned to security in the High North. The UK prime minister said: "The NATO alliance needed to step up in the region to deter adversaries such as Russia."

The leaders also considered the situation in Iran. The statement said: "The leaders agreed on the need for close coordination as events evolved and the prime minister reiterated his support for those who exercised their right to peaceful protest."

The call concluded with the leaders looking forward to speaking again soon.