Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has backed the United States call for the UK and Europe to step up their defence efforts. At the Scottish Labour conference in Glasgow, Starmer emphasized that Britain must take “a leading responsibility” in protecting the continent.
“Instability in Europe always washes up on our shores,” he stated. “This is a generational moment, and we can’t cling to the comforts of the past. It’s time to take responsibility for our security. The US is right about that.”
UK’s Defence Spending Set to Increase—But When?
Starmer’s comments come amid heightened discussions on NATO spending, following remarks from Donald Trump urging European nations to contribute more to defence.
In response, the prime minister reaffirmed his commitment to increasing the UK’s defence budget to 2.5% of GDP, up from the current 2.3%. However, he has yet to specify a timeline for the increase.
Reports suggest that Starmer may unveil further details during his upcoming visit to Washington DC, where he is set to meet Trump on Thursday. Originally, this announcement was expected in the spring alongside a broader defence spending review.
Ukraine Support Sparks Diplomatic Tensions
The prime minister also reiterated the UK’s readiness to support Ukraine in the wake of a potential peace agreement. Earlier this week, he signalled that British troops could be part of a peacekeeping force—a statement that sparked controversy.
While France aligned with the UK’s stance, Germany and Italy warned against prematurely committing to boots on the ground.
“As we enter a new phase in this conflict, we must deepen our solidarity even further,” Starmer asserted. “There can be no discussion about Ukraine without Ukraine. The people of Ukraine must have long-term security.”
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Tensions rose further after US officials met Russian counterparts in Saudi Arabia without including Ukraine or European representatives. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy voiced his frustration, accusing the US of appeasing Vladimir Putin.
Starmer has promised to advocate for Ukraine’s sovereignty in his discussions with Trump, who has previously dismissed Zelenskyy as a “dictator” and criticized European leaders for not doing enough to end the war.
With diplomatic stakes rising, Starmer’s visit to Washington could shape the UK’s role in European defence for years.
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