Europe must be ready to fight, PM tells Munich Security Conference

BBC:

Europe must be ready to fight to protect its people, values, and way of life, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told world leaders on Saturday.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Starmer also called for deeper links and cooperation, including economic ties, between the UK and EU.

The PM stressed the continent must “stand on its own two feet” when it comes to defence commitments.

During his speech, Starmer also said the UK would deploy its carrier strike group to the Arctic and High North as part of efforts to bolster security against Russian threats.

The High North – a term used to describe the northernmost part of the globe – includes the Arctic circle and areas adjacent to it.

Starmer said the US, Canada and other Nato allies would also join the initiative to combat Russian threats in the region.

Russian rearmament following a future peace deal for Ukraine would “only accelerate” and Europe must be prepared to “deter aggression” and be ready to fight if necessary, he added.

“We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age,” he told the conference.