Prime Minister Keir Starmer joins President Macron in Paris to commemorate fallen soldiers, while addressing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza

In a historic gesture, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to break a nearly 80-year tradition today by becoming the first British leader since Winston Churchill to attend Armistice Day commemorations in France. Starmer’s presence in Paris underscores a renewed commitment to the Franco-British alliance, as he stands shoulder to shoulder with President Emmanuel Macron to honour the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War.

The event, marking the 106th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice, sees towns and cities across France paying homage to the end of one of history’s bloodiest conflicts. For Starmer, this visit carries not just historical significance but also diplomatic weight, as he uses the occasion to strengthen ties with a key European ally. The Prime Minister’s participation comes at the personal invitation of President Macron, highlighting the deepening relationship between the two nations amid growing global uncertainties.

Starmer and Macron are set to lay wreaths at iconic war memorials, including the revered Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe. This solemn tribute in the heart of Paris serves as a poignant reminder of the shared sacrifices made by British and French soldiers. Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Starmer said, “It is an honour to be here in Paris, standing united with President Macron to remember those who gave their lives for the freedom we cherish today. We must continue to honour their memory and ensure that their bravery is never forgotten.”

Diplomatic Talks Amid Global Conflicts

While the day’s focus will be on remembrance, Starmer’s visit also carries a significant diplomatic agenda. Before the official ceremonies, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with President Macron on pressing international crises, notably the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza. The conflict in Ukraine, which has now stretched into its third year, has seen European nations, including the UK and France, doubling down on their support for Kyiv against Russia’s aggression. Starmer and Macron are expected to discuss potential strategies to bolster aid and military support for Ukraine in its fight to reclaim sovereignty.

The Gaza conflict, too, will be high on the agenda. As violence escalates in the region, the humanitarian toll has reached devastating levels. Both leaders aim to explore avenues to de-escalate tensions and provide urgent relief to civilians caught in the crossfire. This meeting is being closely watched as a litmus test of Europe’s resolve to act as a unified voice in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

Revitalising Anglo-French Relations

Starmer’s participation in these commemorations is seen as a strategic move to reaffirm the UK’s post-Brexit relationship with Europe. By attending the Armistice Day events, Starmer signals a commitment to maintaining strong ties with France—a crucial partner on the continent. The symbolism of this visit, coming nearly eight decades after Churchill’s presence alongside de Gaulle, is not lost on observers.

As part of his agenda, Starmer announced a £10 million fund dedicated to commemorating the 80th anniversaries of VE Day (Victory in Europe) and VJ Day (Victory over Japan) next year. These celebrations, set to take place across the UK, will honour the triumphs of British forces in the Second World War, ensuring that the heroism of the past continues to be recognised by future generations.

The Armistice Day events in Paris are expected to draw large crowds, with veterans and citizens alike gathering to pay their respects. The scene will be both reflective and celebratory, marking the end of a conflict that reshaped Europe. For many, the presence of leaders like Starmer and Macron sends a powerful message about unity and shared history.

THE GUARDIAN

Keir Starmer will join French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Armistice Day to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of France, marking a significant show of European solidarity following Donald Trump’s re-election. This visit will make Starmer the first UK leader to attend the French national commemoration since Winston Churchill in 1944, underlining the close historical and military ties between the two nations.

In private talks, Starmer and Macron are set to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine and broader European defence strategies amid concerns over NATO’s future. Trump’s re-election has caused unease among NATO allies due to his calls for members to increase their defence spending and reduce their reliance on US military support. The UK, under Starmer’s leadership, is considering ways to raise its defence budget to meet NATO’s target of 2.5% of GDP.

While Whitehall is assessing the potential impact of Trump’s presidency on the UK’s strategic defence review, Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves are expected to announce plans for increased defence spending ahead of a spring deadline. They are also examining contingency plans if Trump pressures NATO allies for greater financial contributions or changes in support for Ukraine.

Starmer’s visit aims to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to European security, with plans for significant commemorative events next year for VE Day and VJ Day. He will also meet new French Prime Minister Michel Barnier and lay wreaths at Parisian war memorials, emphasising the enduring alliance between the UK and France in facing current and future geopolitical challenges.

THE TELEGRAPH

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to meet French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Armistice Day to discuss strategies for bolstering military support for Ukraine, just days after Donald Trump’s re-election. The talks aim to counteract potential shifts in US foreign policy, with Trump having indicated a desire to reduce American military spending and press NATO allies to increase their own contributions.

Starmer and Macron are reportedly concerned about Trump’s past statements suggesting a willingness to negotiate peace in Ukraine by forcing territorial concessions. The UK and France, as key NATO members, are exploring ways to ramp up their defence efforts, including boosting the supply of arms to Ukraine to fill potential gaps if US support diminishes under Trump’s administration.

The Paris meeting will also serve as a symbol of renewed European unity, with Starmer being the first British leader to attend the French Armistice Day ceremony since Churchill. This visit underscores a strategic pivot towards deeper European defence collaboration amidst fears of NATO’s stability under Trump’s leadership.

In parallel, Starmer’s government is reviewing its defence spending strategy, aiming to meet NATO’s 2.5% GDP target while preparing for possible changes in US foreign policy. This move is seen as a pre-emptive measure to safeguard European security and reaffirm the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, regardless of Trump’s approach to the conflict.