WASHINGTON — US President Joe Biden affirmed on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not succeed in his war against Ukraine.

Speaking at the White House alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Biden declared, "The United States is committed to standing with you to help Ukraine as it defends against Russia's onslaught of aggression. It’s clear that Putin will not prevail in this war. The people of Ukraine will prevail."

During their meeting, Biden and Starmer addressed various global issues, including efforts to secure a deal in the Middle East, the release of hostages, an immediate cease-fire, and increasing humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

They also discussed the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing the importance of the US-Australia-UK AUKUS partnership in making the region more free, open, and secure.

Starmer highlighted the significance of supporting Ukraine in what he described as a "vital war of freedom," noting that the coming weeks and months could be crucial for the country.

He expressed eagerness to discuss the Middle East and other global issues, emphasizing the strength and strategic alignment of the relationship between the US and the UK.

This visit marks Starmer’s second meeting with Biden at the White House as prime minister, with Biden’s presidency set to end next January.

Tensions briefly flared when Biden confronted a British reporter over questions about Putin’s threat of a wider war if Ukraine used long-range Western missiles. When Sky News posed the question, Biden, visibly irritated, responded, "I say you be quiet until I speak. Okay? That's what I say. Good idea?" He reiterated his demand for silence, asserting, "You’ve gotta be quiet, I’m going to make a statement here, okay?"

In response to Putin’s comments on a potential direct war with Russia, Biden downplayed the threat, saying, "I don’t think much about Vladimir Putin." — Agencies