Royal Marines veteran Al Carns: US and world leaders still committed to Ukraine

The United States has not become "lukewarm" in its support for Ukraine, according to Veterans Minister Al Carns.

Speaking to BFBS Forces News during a meeting with wounded Ukrainian service personnel and veterans at the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Mr Carns reaffirmed ongoing international backing for Ukraine.

Addressing the injured troops, the minister told them: "You are Ukraine's future," emphasising that their personal stories continue to influence the world.

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The hour-long meeting saw Ukrainian competitors share their experiences of the war with Russia, with Carns listening attentively.

One participant explained how the Invictus Games had been instrumental in his recovery, providing him with new goals to focus on after being wounded in battle.

The minister's visit came as it was reported Prime Minister Keir Starmer is joining France's President Emmanuel Macron and other European counterparts in crisis talks.

They will join Nato secretary general Mark Rutte to work out how to respond to US President Donald Trump's push for an end to the Ukraine war.

Mr Trump’s special envoy for Russia and Ukraine suggested on Saturday that European leaders would be sidelined from negotiations on a peace deal.

However, Mr Carns dismissed suggestions that this change in policy reflected a weakening of US support for Ukraine.

"What I would say is the UK will always stand with Ukraine," Mr Carns said.

"Ukraine is the voice that must be heard and involved in anything as we move forward.

"They have our utmost support; they are one of our strongest allies, and we will continue to support them long into the future."

Mr Carns is spending three days at the Invictus Games and was seen cheering on Team UK in the wheelchair rugby finals on Thursday night.

He has also held bilateral talks with his Canadian, Italian and New Zealand counterparts.

The Ukrainian sitting volleyball team played Team UK in the bronze medal match, beating the British by two sets to none.

The Invictus Games will conclude on Sunday in Vancouver with a star-studded concert featuring musicians Jelly Roll and Barenaked Ladies.