UK PM Starmer Seeks to Strengthen Ties with EU Against Russia

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will attend the European Council meeting in Belgium on Monday, marking the first such visit by a British PM since Brexit. During the meeting, Starmer is expected to advocate for European nations to "bear down" on Russian President Vladimir Putin and reinforce support for Ukraine, according to a statement from his office.

Starmer, who met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz prior to the gathering, emphasized the need for a UK-EU defence and security partnership to address "generational threats." He expressed his commitment to ensuring Ukraine is positioned strongly in upcoming negotiations to conclude its conflict, noting the impact of renewed U.S. sanctions on Russia under President Donald Trump's potential return to the White House.

As part of his agenda, Starmer will also meet NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte before discussions with leaders from the 27 EU member states. The discussions underscore Starmer’s broader strategy to reset post-Brexit relations with the EU and demonstrate solidarity in facing challenges posed by Russia.

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