Challenges Ahead for Starmer
Keir Starmer still has time to shape his role on the world stage.
His visit to the White House ended under gloomy skies—both figuratively and literally—leaving many questions unanswered. Although Donald Trump mentioned the possibility of a trade deal, Starmer’s team later clarified that a comprehensive free-trade agreement was not a priority, despite the UK’s longstanding interest in securing one post-Brexit.
During his flight to Washington, Starmer issued a warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, cautioning that Russia could strike Ukraine again if sufficient defensive measures were not put in place. However, when Starmer met with Trump, the U.S. president expressed the opposite viewpoint.
In their discussion, Trump suggested that a minerals agreement with Ukraine could serve as an implicit security guarantee for European troops in the future. Starmer pushed back, instead advocating for U.S. aerial intelligence and air cover in the event of a Russian attack.
Speaking to NBC after his White House meeting, Starmer acknowledged the potential benefits of Trump's mineral-focused approach but emphasized that it would comprise just one part of a broader security framework. As he meets with European leaders this Sunday, he will seek additional assurances.
Ultimately, this all ties into a larger concern: the U.S. is steadily shifting its focus away from Europe, regardless of how cooperative Trump chooses to be.
Labour peer and former Defence Minister John Spellar pointed out that the U.S. has long signaled this strategic shift, yet Europe has failed to take it seriously. He warned: “The U.S. is refocusing on the Pacific and has made clear that it cannot serve as Europe’s first responder. This would be the case under any administration, regardless of party.”
For now, Starmer may consider this diplomatic encounter a success. But as the saying goes, you’re only as good as your last meeting.
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