Key facts
- UK must be at the heart of a stronger Europe, Keir Starmer said.
- Starmer warned of the threat posed by Russia.
- Starmer stated the US will no longer bankroll European security.
- Starmer called for closer economic and security cooperation with Europe.
- Starmer spoke at the British Irish Chamber of Commerce on Friday.
- Andy Burnham, Starmer's successor, plans to be bolder on closer ties with the EU.
Former UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated on Friday that the UK and other European nations must draw closer together, as the US becomes a less reliable partner. Speaking at the British Irish Chamber of Commerce, Starmer warned European leaders of the threat posed by Russia and said the shift in relations with Washington during Donald Trump’s presidency was not likely to reset once he leaves office. He accused European leaders of being caught out by these new realities twice already, first by Russia's attack on Ukraine and second by Trump's stance on European security.