Keir Starmer's surprise resignation as Prime Minister has sent shockwaves across Europe, prompting an unprecedented outpouring of tributes from European leaders. Just weeks after securing a historic agreement on Northern Ireland Brexit arrangements, Starmer's decision to step down has delayed a highly anticipated EU-UK summit, initially scheduled for 22nd July. The summit's postponement underscores the significance of the UK's relationship with Europe under Starmer's leadership.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, paid glowing tribute to Starmer on social media: 'It can take many leaders years to grow into the statesman you became in just two years. European and Ukrainian security is stronger because of you. Thank you, dear Keir.' Similarly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Starmer for 'all our cooperation, your support, and the joint decisions that have helped make our Europe and our protection of life stronger,' adding that Starmer would 'always be a welcome guest in Ukraine'. These comments reflect the perceived positive impact of Starmer's foreign policy on the continent.
António Costa, President of the European Council, confirmed the necessity of postponing the summit, expressing his hope that Starmer's successor would 'give continuity on this path to reset our relationship with the UK.' He noted that under Starmer's premiership, a 'new page in EU-UK relations' had been turned, with the EU committed to 'continued cooperation in this spirit'. This sentiment suggests a desire within the EU for stability and further progress in post-Brexit relations.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's spokesperson echoed these positive assessments, describing Starmer as 'a reliable and close partner in foreign policy questions, particularly regarding Ukraine.' Despite his resignation, Starmer is still expected to attend an E5 meeting in Berlin on Wednesday, alongside Germany, France, Italy, and Poland, to prepare for the upcoming NATO summit.
However, not all reactions were uniformly positive. Former US President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform: 'Keir Starmer will resign as Prime Minister of The United Kingdom. He failed badly on two very important subjects- IMMIGRATION AND ENERGY (OPEN NORTH SEA OIL!). I wish him well!' This statement reflects differing political priorities and past disagreements between the two leaders.
The postponed EU-UK summit was set to discuss significant agreements, including a food and drink deal aimed at easing border checks, linking emissions trading systems, and establishing a youth mobility programme. The postponement of these talks may have implications for future cooperation between the UK and the EU on key policy areas.