The prime minister told a press conference in Brussels it was “early days” regarding US tariff talks, emphasizing support for “open and strong trading relations.” During his historic post-Brexit meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and EU leaders, Starmer addressed various diplomatic challenges.
On US-EU tensions, Rutte acknowledged “issues between allies” but maintained they wouldn’t affect collective defense commitments. Regarding Ukraine, Starmer emphasized NATO’s need to increase support for strengthening Ukraine’s negotiating position with Russia.
The PM stressed that NATO’s 2% GDP defense spending requirement was insufficient, noting the UK’s current 2.3% contribution and plans to reach 2.5%. Reports indicate only 23 of 32 NATO members currently meet the minimum target.
At a European Council dinner, Starmer advocated for enhanced UK-EU military collaboration, focusing on mobility, logistics, R&D, and industrial partnerships. He also called for increased cooperation on infrastructure security, particularly following recent concerns about a Russian spy ship near undersea cables.
While pursuing stronger EU ties, Downing Street affirmed positive US relations, citing “constructive early conversations” and highlighting the £300bn trading relationship and £1.2tn mutual investments.
Reform UK’s Nigel Farage criticized Starmer’s EU industrial collaboration plans on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, warning it could restrict US trade opportunities and bind the UK to EU regulations, calling the PM “a rejoiner at heart.”
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