Sir Keir Starmer has called on European leaders to unite and bolster their defences against Russia, following the recent near-UK sailing of a Russian spy ship, the Yantar, which raised concerns over potential threats to vital undersea cables. The UK Prime Minister emphasized the need for increased military and industrial collaboration across the European Union to prevent further acts of sabotage and ensure the security of critical infrastructure.
Starmer’s remarks came during a European Council dinner in Brussels, where he became the first UK Prime Minister to attend such a meeting since Brexit. Speaking directly to EU leaders, he highlighted the urgency of strengthening co-operation across the continent to counter growing state-sponsored threats, particularly with regard to the security of undersea infrastructure, which remains vital to the global flow of information and communication.
“We need to deepen co-operation to protect ourselves from state threats and sabotage, including on sub-sea infrastructure,” Starmer said, addressing the growing fears of Russian interference. The incident with the Yantar, a Russian naval vessel known for its espionage activities, has raised alarms about Moscow’s increasing attempts to disrupt critical networks that underpin modern economies and military communications.
Starmer’s comments reflect broader concerns about Russia’s continued efforts to destabilise European security, particularly in the wake of increased geopolitical tensions. The Prime Minister’s call for a united European response comes as the EU faces other challenges, including the return of former U.S. President Donald Trump to the political scene, which has further complicated international relations.
While in Brussels, European leaders scrambled to address the implications of Trump’s possible return to the White House, which has sparked fears of renewed instability. The former president has already made waves with threats to take over Greenland, impose tariffs on EU goods, and demand higher defence spending from NATO members. This unexpected resurgence has added further pressure on the EU to solidify its defence capabilities and strengthen alliances.
Starmer’s stance underscores the UK’s ongoing commitment to ensuring Europe remains secure in the face of external threats. As tensions rise across the continent, particularly in the wake of Russia’s recent military actions in Ukraine, the Prime Minister’s message is clear: a unified, strategic response is essential to safeguarding Europe’s future.
