Starmer’s First Foreign Trip as UK PM: NATO Summit in Washington

Keir Starmer, 61, is embarking on his inaugural foreign trip as British Prime Minister to attend NATO’s 75th anniversary summit in Washington, D.C., marking a significant diplomatic debut since assuming office last Friday.

During his visit, Starmer aims to reaffirm Britain’s steadfast support for the Western military alliance and Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression. This summit kick-starts a series of intensive international engagements within Starmer’s first fortnight in power, including hosting a conference for European leaders next week.

“This trip is not only an opportunity for him to learn and engage with other leaders, but also to articulate key messages,” noted foreign policy expert James Strong.

Under the previous Conservative government, Britain staunchly supported Ukraine with financial aid, weaponry, and military training to counter Russia’s invasion. Starmer, continuing Labour’s commitment, pledges ongoing solidarity with Kyiv and plans to personally convey this to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the NATO gathering.

Defence Secretary John Healey has already visited Ukraine post-election, and Foreign Secretary David Lammy has engaged with European NATO allies. Labour aims to uphold alliance commitments, including matching the Conservatives’ pledge to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP, surpassing NATO’s 2% target. The party also emphasizes closer collaboration with European partners, including bilateral agreements with France and Germany, as well as broader agreements within the EU.

The summit provides an early opportunity for Starmer to strengthen ties with US President Joe Biden and reaffirm the UK-US “special relationship.” Labour’s center-left stance aligns closely with Biden’s Democratic Party, potentially fostering closer ties. However, the visit occurs amidst sensitive times for the US president.

“He will want to underscore his unwavering commitment to the UK’s alliance with America and signal the resilience of the ‘special relationship,’ irrespective of future challenges,” remarked Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at the Policy Exchange think-tank.

Potential points of discussion between Starmer and Biden include the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, where Labour’s stance is seen as more pro-Palestinian than Washington’s. Additionally, discussions on policy towards China, encompassing trade, commerce, and technology, are expected.

Following the NATO summit, Starmer will host the European Political Community summit at Blenheim Palace near Oxford on July 18, with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz anticipated to attend.