President Joe Biden's European diplomatic tour commenced with meetings in the United Kingdom, where he engaged with both King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. This visit marked Biden's first encounter with the monarch since the coronation earlier this year, which he did not attend.

The 80-year-old president's meeting with the 74-year-old King took place at Windsor Castle following discussions with Sunak at 10 Downing Street. The primary focus of these meetings, according to the Biden administration, revolved around climate change and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Specific details of the conversations remain undisclosed.

Biden's meeting with Sunak occurred shortly after a disagreement between the two leaders regarding the provision of cluster munitions to Ukraine. While the UK has consistently advocated for increased US military support for Ukraine, Sunak expressed reservations about this particular type of weaponry.

Sunak, referencing the UK's commitment to a convention prohibiting the use and production of cluster munitions, emphasized the nation's continued support for Ukraine through the provision of heavy battle tanks and long-range weapons.

The decision to supply cluster munitions, known for their potential to cause civilian casualties and leave unexploded ordnance, has been a point of contention. Biden defended the move as a temporary measure until conventional munitions production increases, citing dwindling ammunition supplies as the rationale.

Following his UK visit, Biden proceeded to Lithuania for a NATO summit.