UK Should Develop Closer Defense Ties With Europe, Says Starmer

Trump has been pressuring NATO allies to commit more of their own resources to defending Europe.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement in the media briefing room of 9 Downing Street, in London on Jan. 19, 2026. Jordan Pettitt/Pool/AP

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the UK should work more closely with Europe on defense, adding that the continent needs to do more to ensure its own security.

“I do think on spend, capability and co-operation we need to do more together,” Starmer told reporters on his way to China last week in comments released on Feb. 1.