Keir Starmer becomes first UK PM to join EU meeting since Brexit

London, Feb 3 (PTI) – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer marked a significant diplomatic milestone on Monday as he became the first UK leader to participate in an informal European Council meeting in Brussels since Brexit. His visit signals a strategic effort to recalibrate UK-EU relations, with a strong emphasis on defence and security cooperation amid global geopolitical tensions.

The meeting, attended by leaders of the 27-member European Union, takes place against the backdrop of escalating trade tensions sparked by US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats. The Starmer-led Labour government has framed the visit as part of a broader "reset" in post-Brexit ties between the UK and the EU.

Strengthening Pressure on Russia​

In a firm stance on international security, Starmer highlighted the necessity for European allies to step up in response to Russia’s actions. "President Trump has threatened more sanctions on Russia, and it's clear that’s got Putin rattled. We know that he’s worried about the state of the Russian economy," he remarked.

The British prime minister underscored the UK's commitment to intensifying pressure on Moscow. "I’m here to work with our European partners on keeping up the pressure, targeting the energy revenues and the companies supplying his missile factories to crush Putin’s war machine. Because ultimately, alongside our military support, that is what will bring peace closer," Starmer stated.

10 Downing Street confirmed that Starmer will advocate for sustained military and economic support for Ukraine to ensure a strong stance against Russian aggression in the coming year.

Balancing US and EU Relations​

During a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Starmer reaffirmed Britain’s long-standing foreign policy approach of maintaining strong ties with both the US and the EU. Addressing questions about managing relations with Trump, he clarified:

"I've always been clear that both [the US and EU] are important to us. We are not choosing between them, but that's historically been the position of the UK for many, many decades now. It's in the best interests of the UK and global security that we work with both."

UK’s Post-Brexit Engagement with the EU​

At the European Council session at Palais d'Egmont, Starmer is set to outline his vision for a reinforced UK-EU defence and security partnership. His proposals include deeper cooperation on shared security threats, tackling cross-border crime, addressing illegal migration, and fostering economic growth.

Downing Street reaffirmed the government’s stance on Brexit, stating that while Starmer is committed to improving post-Brexit arrangements, the UK will not return to freedom of movement, the customs union, or the single market.

Key areas of discussion include:

• Facilitating trade in food and animal products,
• Strengthening energy cooperation, including potential links between the UK and the EU’s emissions trading schemes,
• Mutual recognition of professional qualifications,
• Simplifying travel for touring musicians.

Political Opposition and Brexit Concerns​

The Opposition Conservative Party, led by Kemi Badenoch, has criticized Starmer’s engagement with the EU, accusing him of attempting to "reopen the divisions of the past and edge us back into the EU." Labour, however, insists that the talks are focused on pragmatic cooperation rather than reversing Brexit.

As Starmer engages with European leaders, his approach aims to strike a balance between fostering closer ties with the EU and maintaining a strong transatlantic alliance, all while ensuring that Brexit continues to work in the UK's best interest.