Liz Truss and Ursula von der Leyen issue rare joint statement as Brexit sidelined in talks

Liz Truss and Ursula von der Leyen held a meeting at the UN in New York.

By Dan Falvey – Deputy Political Editor

16:19, Wed, Sep 21, 2022 | UPDATED: 17:15, Wed, Sep 21, 2022

567

Liz Truss arrives at UN General Assembly ahead of speech

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Liz Truss and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen put Brexit talks to one side today as they urgently discussed Vladimir Putin’s escalating rhetoric of war. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Related articles

• Liz Truss could face Lords rebellion over hated Brexit deal bill
• Brexiteer demands Biden open his eyes to hated Brexit deal

It is the first time Ms Truss and Ms von der Leyen have met since the UK politician took over from Boris Johnson as Prime Minister.

Frictions over the Northern Ireland Protocol, which have dominated the relationship between the UK and EU post-Brexit, were planned to be high on the agenda.

However, a read-out on the meeting made only a fleeting reference to the row as both leaders vowed to work together on tackling Russian aggression.

Earlier today President Putin gave a TV address in which he ordered Russia’s first mobilisation since World War Two.

READ MORE: Truss puts US trade deal on back burner to safeguard Northern Ireland