UK PM attends first EU meeting since Brexit – Channel 4 News

Brussels: On February 3, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met EU leaders. This was his first meeting since Brexit. EU leaders welcomed his promise of a “Brexit reset.” However, they were disappointed with the lack of concrete proposals from London.

Starmer’s dinner with EU leaders marked a significant moment. It was the first time a British prime minister had a private meeting with them since Brexit. Ireland’s Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, expressed optimism about the meeting.

Despite initial enthusiasm, EU leaders have grown cautious. They hope Starmer will bring tangible proposals to the table. Downing Street stated that Starmer would discuss a UK-EU defense and security partnership.

Security and defense are seen as key areas for cooperation. The UK and EU need to work together, especially with the ongoing war in Ukraine. Coordinated sanctions against Russia have shown the importance of collaboration.

EU leaders are eager to streamline defense cooperation. They aim to create a €500 billion defense fund to enhance European security. However, member states are still debating how to finance it and who will benefit.

Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the need for collaboration between the UK and EU defense industries. He mentioned that legal barriers should be removed to facilitate cooperation.

Experts believe the European defense industry remains interconnected despite Brexit. Excluding the UK from EU defense contracts could harm both sides, according to NATO’s chief.

Starmer’s meeting comes at a sensitive time. President Trump recently threatened trade tariffs on the EU. His comments raised concerns about the UK’s relationship with the US.

Starmer aims to rebuild ties with the EU while avoiding conflict with Trump. The meeting is crucial for the future of UK-EU relations.