UK’s prime minister urges Europe to act on security plans to deter Russia

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged European nations to take proactive steps in developing a comprehensive security plan to deter Russia, particularly in case of a peace agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.

Starmer made these remarks in an interview with The New York Times, stressing that Europe cannot afford to wait passively for a deal to materialise, Caliber.Az reports.

Starmer stated that they could not sit back and wait for a deal, and when it happened, simply agree and scratch their heads. The prime minister argued that without reliable security guarantees, Ukraine would be left vulnerable, and that Europe must play a pivotal role in ensuring such protections.

Starmer further emphasised the importance of maintaining strong transatlantic relations, particularly in light of US President Donald Trump’s historically cool stance toward Europe. He stated that many people urged them to choose between the US and Europe, but that Churchill and Attlee had not done so. In his view, it would be a grave mistake to make that choice now, reinforcing the need for a united Western front. At the same time, Starmer acknowledged Trump’s call for European nations to take on a greater responsibility in defending Europe. He added that he thought President Trump was right in saying that European countries should bear a greater burden for Europe’s collective defense. 

However, the UK faces numerous obstacles in its diplomatic efforts. Russia has outright rejected the idea of NATO peacekeeping forces, and Trump has yet to offer the security guarantees Starmer believes are essential for countries to commit troops to the cause. Despite these hurdles, Starmer expressed determination to lead the charge, stressing that the UK cannot afford to delay action. 

He warned that if they moved at the pace of the most cautious, they would move very slowly and wouldn’t be in the position they needed to be in. In addition, Starmer lauded Trump’s efforts toward a peaceful resolution to the conflict and reiterated the strong bond between London and Washington, noting that London and Washington are bound in a way no other two parties are.

By Naila Huseynova