by N. Peter Kramer
Keir Starmer got a warm reception at last Mondays’ informal EU leaders’ summit. After speaking at dinner the leaders applauded for him, Politico let know.
A remarkable moment: a British leader, back in the capital of the European Union, get a warm reception. Even from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who had a special meeting with Starmer. To say it with Bob Dylan: ‘The times they are a-changing’.
On the anniversary of Brexit, the Prime Minister promised the UK will not re-join the EU’s single market or customs union, or sign up for freedom of movement.
But the British government do want a better relationship with the EU on defence and security, crime and trade. The informal meeting of the EU’s 27 member states leaders and Starmer was about defence and security, especially in the light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
‘I am here to work with our EU partners on keeping up the pressure to crush Putin’s war machine by targeting the energy revenues. Ultimately, alongside our military support, that is what will bring peace closer’.
On the return of Trump, the UK Prime Minister was more reluctant than the EU leaders. After Monday’s visit to Brussels, Starmer is expected in the US in the next few weeks. Being to close with the EU will likely tread on Washington’s toes.
