With the special relationship faltering, Britain must rearm
That requires an effective military capability and the resources to support Ukraine. Successive governments have hollowed out our Armed Forces. It will take time to rebuild them, but rebuild we must, and quickly. We must put our economy on a wartime footing and devote at least 5 per cent of GDP to defence spending – immediately, not at some time in the future.
Nick Green
Devizes, Wiltshire
SIR – In light of the bullying of Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky, by both Donald Trump and his vice president J D Vance, I believe that the invitation extended to Mr Trump for a second state visit to Britain should be rescinded.
Sheila Vella
Istán, Malaga
SIR – After watching Justin Trudeau speaking in support of Ukraine, I think our 'special relationship' should be with Canada.
Charles Steward
Chippenham, Wiltshire
SIR – Isolating America from Europe has a two-way effect.
For the foreseeable future, the world will be a very uncertain and increasingly dangerous place. If America was attacked and sought assistance from its erstwhile allies, a positive response would not be guaranteed.
America needs Europe and vice versa.
Michael Weeden
Ascot, Berkshire
SIR – The stationing of British troops in Ukraine would put this country at risk of war with Russia, should Vladimir Putin or one of his successors launch another 'special military operation'.
We should adopt the Nixon Doctrine, which in part stated: 'We shall furnish military and economic assistance when requested in accordance with our treaty commitments. But we shall look to the nation directly threatened to assume the primary responsibility of providing the manpower for its defence.'
Robert Edwards
Hornchurch, Essex
SIR – Sir Keir Starmer's lightweight stature is improved by his stance on Ukraine.
Britain is unique among nations in recognising tyranny and standing against it. It is Mr Trump, not Mr Zelensky, who is (in the words of Mr Trump) 'gambling with World War Three'.
Peter May
Balingup, Southampton, Australia
SIR – Could it be that Sir Keir Starmer is the best conservative prime minister we have had in a decade?
Mike McKone
Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria
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