Cruising to Washington at 30,000 feet, Keir Starmer knew he was heading straight into a storm.

The Prime Minister's sit-down with Donald Trump on Thursday is his biggest test yet and has been described as one of the most important meetings between a PM and a US President since the Second World War.

The discussions could have major ramifications for the UK and Europe. As he came to speak to journalists at the back of the Government plane, it was clear that Mr Starmer knew what was at stake.

Clad in a dark suit, the PM stood as journalists huddled around him, sat on the floor or wedged against windows to hear him about the roar of the engine.

He batted away a barrage of questions about the talks - conscious that a stray comment could enrage the thin-skinned President.

But he was firm that the UK won't abandon Ukraine and Vladimir Putin is to blame for the bloody invasion of Ukraine.

Mr Starmer seemed calm but steely - and didn't stick around for further chat as he went back to the front of the place where his top officials were gathered to continue their prep for the visit.

The PM has been to the White House before - to meet Joe Biden last summer - so he knows the drill.

But the stakes are sky high this time.