The US is an indispensable ally for Europe, but times are changing and the Old Continent must do more to defend itself. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said this while speaking at the Munich Security Conference.
„We must rise to the challenge of the times. We must spend more, do more and coordinate better and, most importantly, do it together with the US. Their contribution to European security over 80 years is unparalleled, as is our gratitude“, said the British Prime Minister.
At the same time, Starmer acknowledged that „the situation is changing“ in relations between the transatlantic allies. “The US National Security Strategy clearly states that Europe must take primary responsibility for its own defence. This is the new reality“, the Prime Minister noted.
In this regard, Starmer called on European countries to abandon excessive dependence on the US for defence and to strengthen cooperation with each other. “Europe must stand on its own two feet. That means being bolder, abandoning petty politics and short-term interests. That means working together to create a stronger Europe and a more European NATO“, he said.