British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the urgent need for increased defence spending in Europe, calling it a “generational challenge” for national security. He said ahead of an emergency meeting in Paris that the war in Russia in Ukraine needed a stronger European response and more unity between countries, including a focus on UK defence.
European Leaders Meet in Paris Amid U.S. Policy Shift
Starmer and other European leaders are gathering in Paris to address the implications of U.S. President Donald Trump has taken steps to negotiate an end to the nearly three-year-old war between the Ukraine and Russia. Before leaving for the summit, Starmer said national security issues were not just about Ukraine but were affecting the continent and the UK too. This includes the importance of UK defence in broader strategic discussions.
This is a challenge for the generation regarding national security. “This is not just about Ukraine’s front line; it’s about the security of Europe and the UK. We must do more to support UK defence and ensure our collective safety.”
UK’s Role in Peacekeeping Efforts
Starmer has expressed willingness to deploy British peacekeeping forces to Ukraine if a settlement is reached. However, the spokesperson clarified that this would be dependent on the securing guarantees of America. Next week in Washington, when Starmer meets Trump, discussions on U.S. role will take place, including its impact on UK defence.
His spokesperson said that “U.S. support is vital, and security guarantee is must for peace.”
A Call for Greater European Responsibility
Starmer stressed that the war in Ukraine affected the entire continent, not just the countries directly involved. He is pushing European countries to bolster their defense budgets and take a more active role in defending Ukraine’s sovereignty if a peace deal is reached. This includes a greater emphasis on UK defence strategies to ensure long-term security.
We must up our game together on the continent, he said. According to Starmer, we must make the current difficulties with the war over Ukraine, and economic instability work for good to establish a peaceful Europe. That means strengthening our capabilities and fully supporting the sovereignty of Ukraine in the event of a peace deal. The UK must insist on European allies playing a greater role in securing Europe, with a clear focus on enhancing UK defence.
