After meeting with Joe Biden in Washington, Starmer asserts the President is “on really good form,” while facing increasing pressure regarding his re-election bid

During a recent NATO summit in Washington, D.C., UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed strong support for U.S. President Joe Biden, stating he was “on really good form.” This meeting comes at a time when Biden faces mounting scrutiny over his mental fitness, with figures like actor George Clooney publicly suggesting the president should consider stepping down from the race.

Starmer emphasized Biden’s impressive grasp of various international issues discussed during their bilateral talks. “He was across all the detail,” Starmer noted, highlighting their rapid discussion of strategic matters beyond just the ongoing situation in Ukraine. The Prime Minister remarked on Biden’s “incredible leadership,” reinforcing the strength of the UK-U.S. relationship and NATO’s collective security commitments.

The NATO alliance expects its members to allocate at least 2% of their national income to defense spending. Starmer’s new Labour government aims to increase the UK’s contribution to 2.5%, although no specific timeline has been provided. The Conservative opposition has criticized this lack of a timetable, warning it raises doubts about the government’s commitment to national security.

When pressed on the spending target, Starmer reaffirmed his “iron-clad” commitment to reaching 2.5% but avoided setting an arbitrary date. Instead, he stated the government would conduct a strategic review to establish a feasible plan, arguing that merely selecting a date would reflect outdated political thinking. “I am determined that we are seriously going to put the plan in place to reach that commitment,” he asserted.

Starmer’s positive assessment of Biden contrasts sharply with growing concerns among Democrats about the president’s ability to win re-election, with calls for him to step aside increasing among party insiders. Clooney’s opinion piece in the New York Times captured this sentiment, expressing admiration for Biden’s morals but questioning his viability in a tough electoral climate.

As the NATO summit progressed, discussions about defence spending and international cooperation took centre stage. Starmer’s remarks indicate a commitment to maintaining a strong alliance with the U.S., while also navigating domestic pressures to enhance the UK’s defence capabilities.

GOV.UK

On July 10, 2024, Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with President Joe Biden at the White House. The discussions centered around key geopolitical issues, highlighting the strong alliance between the UK and the US, particularly in light of ongoing global challenges.

The Prime Minister opened by congratulating President Biden on the success of the NATO summit, noting that the alliance is stronger and more united than ever in its 75th year. Both leaders underscored the importance of NATO in the current geopolitical landscape and committed to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. They expressed a shared determination to ensure that aggressors like Vladimir Putin do not prevail, emphasizing the need for unwavering support for Ukraine as it continues to face significant threats.

Moving on to the situation in Israel and Gaza, the leaders discussed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire. They highlighted the importance of securing the release of hostages, facilitating humanitarian aid, and making progress towards a sustainable two-state solution. This reflects their commitment to peace and stability in the region.

Additionally, President Biden welcomed Starmer’s recent statements regarding strengthening relationships with European counterparts. The Prime Minister’s commitment to AUKUS, the trilateral security pact between Australia, the UK, and the US, was also acknowledged. Both leaders agreed that unity and collaboration are crucial in tackling the growing challenges faced globally.

The meeting served to reinforce the strategic partnership between the UK and the US, focusing on collaborative efforts to address pressing international issues, including security, humanitarian crises, and regional stability.

The Guardian

On July 10, 2024, President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Keir Starmer held their first bilateral talks at the White House during the NATO summit in Washington. Biden expressed support for Starmer’s ambition to foster a closer relationship between the UK and the European Union, suggesting that the UK serves as a “knot” tying the transatlantic alliance together. He emphasized that a stronger connection with Europe would enhance this bond.

Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to NATO and support for Ukraine, announcing plans to allocate at least £3 billion annually for military aid to Ukraine “for as long as it takes” in its conflict with Russia. He used the summit as an opportunity to strengthen ties with European leaders and advance negotiations for an EU-UK security pact, joined by Minister for European Relations Nick Thomas-Symonds.

During their meeting, Starmer congratulated Biden on hosting the NATO summit’s 75th anniversary, praising the alliance’s increased resolve. The conversation was marked by light moments, including jokes about football and a gift exchange, where Starmer presented Biden with an Arsenal shirt and a framed copy of the original Atlantic Charter.

As questions about Biden’s health and the upcoming election linger, the meeting highlighted the importance of the US-UK relationship amidst evolving geopolitical challenges, particularly in the context of Brexit and its implications for Northern Ireland. The leaders’ discussions underscored a mutual commitment to strengthen alliances and address pressing international issues collaboratively.

BBC

After meeting President Joe Biden at the NATO summit in Washington, Prime Minister Keir Starmer described Biden as being “on really good form.” Addressing concerns about Biden’s mental fitness, Starmer refuted claims of senility, praising the president’s understanding and leadership during their discussions.

Starmer highlighted that they covered a wide range of issues, stating Biden was well-informed and engaged. The meeting reaffirmed the strength of the UK-US “special relationship” and their shared commitment to NATO.

In terms of defense spending, Starmer reiterated Labour’s aim to increase the UK’s commitment to 2.5% of national income, although he did not set a specific timeline for achieving this goal. He emphasized the need for a strategic review before establishing a plan, arguing against arbitrary deadlines.

The prime minister’s comments come amidst ongoing pressure on Biden regarding his fitness for the presidency, particularly after George Clooney suggested in the New York Times that Biden should consider stepping aside from the race. Despite these pressures, Starmer’s optimistic assessment underscores a continued commitment to international cooperation and defence initiatives.