At the Munich Security Forum, Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored the necessity of bolstering Europe’s military readiness while advocating for greater integration within the continent. He urged a reduction in NATO’s dependence on the United States, emphasizing the need for Europe to fortify its defense capabilities.
Starmer also hinted at pursuing deeper economic integration with the European Union’s single market. This move, he argued, would facilitate the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people, enhancing economic ties six years after Britain’s exit from the EU.
The Prime Minister’s vision for enhanced European security and autonomy involves not a withdrawal of U.S. support, but a call for better burden-sharing in defense. He stressed that Europe must take primary responsibility for its own defense, advocating for a more unified approach to defense procurement and industrial collaboration.