UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer affirmed that the country will not prioritize either the US or the EU, despite tensions arising from President Trump's trade threats. During his visit to Brussels, Starmer emphasized the importance of balancing both relationships while also strengthening defense an
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has emphasized that the UK is "not choosing between the US and the EU" in light of President Donald Trump's recent trade threats against the European Union.
Trump's weekend announcement included 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, which have since been suspended, but he warned of similar measures targeting the EU. He also suggested that a potential deal could be "worked out" with the UK.
During a press conference in Brussels, Starmer made it clear that the UK values both its relationship with the US and its ties with the EU. He reiterated that the UK's diplomatic strategy will continue to balance both alliances, stressing that this approach is not new and has been a long-standing policy.
Starmer's remarks came as he met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and participated in EU leaders' talks. Starmer stated that the UK would maintain open and strong trading relations with the US and the EU. He also downplayed the possibility of prioritizing one over the other, calling it "early days" in the tariff discussions with the US.
On defense matters, Starmer discussed NATO’s importance and advocated for increased military cooperation between the UK and Europe. He emphasized the need for better military mobility, research, development, and protection against state threats. This came after the UK raised concerns about Russian activity near undersea cables, underscoring the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure.
While defense remained the central focus of his Brussels visit, Starmer also highlighted the UK’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the EU post-Brexit. However, balancing this objective with the UK’s trade relationship with the US presents challenges, as a stronger bond with the EU could risk straining ties with Washington.
Similarly, the EU might object to the UK aligning too closely with the US, rather than prioritizing European interests.
In the face of these delicate negotiations, Sir Keir Starmer reiterated the UK’s goal of fostering a balanced and mutually beneficial relationship with both sides of the Atlantic, a strategy that will require careful diplomacy moving forward.
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