PM Sir Keir Starmer calls for closer military ties with Europe
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will assert that the era of Brexit Britain has ended, emphasizing the necessity of closer military cooperation with Europe. He will argue that “there is no British security without Europe,” advocating for enhanced collaboration with European nations to strengthen the NATO alliance amid unpredictable US support, reports BritPanorama.
Starmer’s comments come during a Munich Security Summit attended by approximately 50 world leaders, where he is expected to state, “We are not the Britain of the Brexit years anymore. Because we know that, in dangerous times, we would not take control by turning inward — we would surrender it.” He will highlight the intertwined security of Britain and Europe, asserting that “there is no British security without Europe, and no European security without Britain.”
These remarks may attract criticism as he describes a retreat into an inward-looking Brexit stance as a “surrender” in light of the ongoing threat posed by Russia. He will advocate that Europe must reduce its reliance on the United States and move towards greater self-reliance in defence capabilities.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has recently articulated that deeper integration within the EU is crucial for stimulating economic growth, while Starmer mentioned last month that the UK ought to seek more alignment with European markets for national interests. He will emphasize that although the US remains an indispensable ally, Europe must significantly increase its military production capabilities to meet its defence needs.
Additionally, Starmer is poised to criticize the Reform UK party for its perceived admiration of Russian President Vladimir Putin, as well as the Green Party for questioning the UK’s NATO membership. Meanwhile, Defence Secretary John Healey acknowledged the “political ups and downs” but reaffirmed the US’s steadfast commitment to NATO.
During discussions in Munich, Starmer addressed the situation in Ukraine, engaging with its leader Volodymyr Zelensky and other European and American officials, ahead of anticipated three-way talks involving Russia, the US, and Ukraine next week.
Starmer’s vision reflects a significant shift in UK policy towards Europe and security, emphasizing the importance of collaborative relationships in facing global challenges.
This stance could redefine Britain’s role in European security and influence its future interactions on the world stage, especially in the realm of military cooperation and defense preparedness.
