Healey set to push for closer defence ties in Europe and a future for Ukraine

John Healey has travelled to Paris to pledge to deepen the level of defence cooperation between the UK and its European allies.

The Defence Secretary joins his counterparts from France, Germany, Italy and Poland in the French capital to discuss strengthening deterrence through Nato, improving defence production and ensuring the future of Ukraine.

All the countries involved in the E5 meeting of defence ministers have agreed that Ukraine must be involved any peace negotiations.

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The previous day, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the Chief of the Defence Staff, met his French counterpart to discuss a coalition of nations which can help aid Ukraine's future security.

"We are at a decisive moment for the future of Ukraine and for the security of Europe. As E5 nations, we recognise we must take on more responsibility for European security," Mr Healey said.

"The UK remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine, and we will continue to lead alongside our European partners as we push for a just and lasting peace.

"European nations are stepping up. By deepening our defence cooperation, boosting spending and enhancing our collective strength, we send a clear message: we will not waver in standing with Ukraine and defending our shared values."

The group, which is meeting at the Val-de-Grace chapel in central Paris, will look at ways to obtain security guarantees for Ukraine, if any peace agreement is reached.

The five ministers will discuss increasing weapons production and boosting their defence industrial bases.

The Defence Secretary’s visit to Paris follows Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's announcement that defence spending will rise to 2.5% of GDP by 2027.