UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer urges European leaders to prepare for Russian aggression, announcing the deployment of warships and fighter jets to the Arctic later this year. The decision, revealed at the Munich Security Conference, responds to security challenges in the High North amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to annex Greenland.
Starmer’s Call to Action
Speaking at the conference, Starmer emphasizes that leaders cannot hesitate, as Russia demonstrates a clear appetite for aggression. He warns that even a potential peace deal in Ukraine would accelerate Russia’s rearmament efforts.
"We must answer this threat in full," Starmer states. "The road ahead is straight and clear. We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age. We must deter aggression, and if necessary, be ready to fight."
The prime minister highlights collaboration with the U.S., Canada, and other allies to strengthen security in the Arctic region.
Response to Trump’s Concerns
Trump criticizes NATO allies for insufficient defense of Greenland, a strategically vital area against threats from Russia and China. Starmer counters doubts about NATO commitments, reaffirming the UK’s dedication to Article 5, the alliance’s collective defense principle invoked only after the 9/11 attacks.
"Be in no doubt, if called on, the UK would come to your aid today," he assures the U.S. president.
Rubio’s Warning to Europe
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addresses European leaders shortly before Starmer, cautioning against repeating past mistakes. He stresses the need for partners with the "will to survive" and rejects any U.S. role as caretaker of Western decline.
Rubio criticizes insufficient defense spending, excessive welfare priorities, climate policies harming economies, high immigration levels, and failure to defend historical values, describing a "malaise of hopelessness and complacency."
Zelensky Criticizes Peace Talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accuses the U.S. of pushing Ukraine toward concessions to Russia too frequently in American-brokered negotiations, while sidelining Europe.
"The Americans often return to the topic of concessions, and too often those concessions are discussed only in the context of Ukraine, not Russia," Zelensky remarks. He urges continued U.S. involvement and greater European participation, calling the current exclusion of Europe "a big mistake."
Push for EU Ties
As the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches, Starmer stresses the urgency of stronger defense links with the EU. He advocates deeper economic integration, aiming to align closer with the single market in key sectors.
