Sir Keir Starmer thinks he can manage relations with the US, EU and China – but that could be easier said than done

Brussels: The symbolism was clear. After five years of Brexit, the British prime minister was invited to dinner with EU leaders. This informal meeting aimed to reset relations after a rocky Brexit.

The invitation was sent weeks ago. Both sides wanted to strengthen defense, security, and trade ties. Britain now has a Labour government that opposes Brexit, while the EU seems more pragmatic in renewing ties with the UK.

However, the EU leaders spent the summit discussing a potential US-EU trade war. President Trump criticized the EU’s trade practices and hinted at tariffs, while suggesting the UK could work things out.

The EU has a significant trade deficit with the US, which Trump dislikes. In contrast, the UK does not have this issue. Interestingly, a Labour prime minister and a Republican president appear to be getting along.

They had dinner at Trump Towers in September and a friendly phone call recently. Insiders were surprised by Trump’s positive attitude toward Starmer. Their connection adds to the favorable backdrop of Trump’s ties to the UK.

The big question is whether Starmer can maintain good relations with both the EU and the US if tensions rise. He made it clear he doesn’t want to choose sides.

Much depends on how the EU navigates its relationship with Trump. Currently, the EU is cautious, engaging in trade talks with the US. They might consider increasing oil and gas imports from the US to balance trade.

In both Brussels and London, officials are monitoring how tariffs affect Mexico and Canada. There’s a belief that making concessions can lead to positive outcomes.

In London, there’s quiet confidence that Trump won’t impose tariffs on the UK. One insider mentioned, “That’s not where he’s looking.”

However, Starmer is uncertain if Trump will overlook the UK’s growing trade ties with China while maintaining a strong stance with Europe if relations worsen.

Starmer and his team believe they can manage relations with China, the US, and the EU to benefit the UK. But achieving this balance may be more challenging than it seems.