Keir Starmer became the first British prime minister to attend Armistice commemorations in France since World War II on Monday, as the two countries appear to be forging closer ties ahead of an incoming Donald Trump presidency.
Starmer joined French and British veterans alongside French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to honor those who died in World War I, as well as veterans of subsequent conflicts, according to No. 10 Downing Street.
The last UK leader to attend commemorations in the French capital was former Prime Minister Winston Churchill at the invitation of General Charles de Gaulle in 1944.
The UK prime minister appears to be increasing coordination with France and has previously pledged to build a closer relationship with Europe and “reset” relations with the EU in the aftermath of Brexit.
Ahead of Monday’s commemorations, Starmer met Macron for a bilateral meeting to discuss topics including Russia’s war in Ukraine, European security and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
“The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination, underlining their determination to support Ukraine unwaveringly and for as long as necessary to defeat Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine,” a French government statement said.
Trump has suggested he will cut support for Kyiv’s war effort and claimed on the campaign trail that he could settle the war “in one day.”
Ahead of his inauguration in January, European allies have been bracing for US funding for Ukraine to dwindle. Last week, Macron said Europe needs to take control of its own destiny at a pivotal time for the continent, adding, “We cannot entrust our security to the Americans forever.”
British media reported that Starmer and Macron were also expected to discuss trade and the impacts of a Trump presidency, with The Guardian newspaper calling it “a pointed show of European solidarity days after Donald Trump’s re-election.”
As a candidate, Trump also pledged to put 10% tariffs on imported goods. That has sparked concern in the UK, given the United States is the country’s largest trading partner, accounting for more than 17% of total UK trade.
‘Enduring friendship’ between UK and France
On Monday, the British prime minister, alongside Macron, laid wreathes at various monuments throughout Paris, including the Winston Churchill Statue and the Tomb of the Unknown soldier – a symbol in France commemorating those who died during World War I. Both the British and French national anthems were played as the leaders paid their respects.
“I am honored to be in Paris to stand united with President Macron in tribute to the fallen of the First World War who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy today,” Starmer said.
“These events are vital in ensuring the memory of millions of young soldiers, sailors, and aviators live on for generations to come,” he added.
Starmer’s presence, at the personal invitation of Macron, symbolizes “the close and enduring friendship between the UK and France,” the PM’s office said.
He was also expected to meet his French counterpart Michel Barnier – the first time the pair have met since Barnier became France’s prime minister in September.
Monday’s visit comes as Starmer also announces more than £10 million (almost $13 million) to mark the 80th anniversaries of the Allied Victory in Europe and the end of World War II in the Far East in 1945.
Starmer’s office announced events will be held across the UK next year to mark the anniversaries on May 8 and August 15 respectively.
“This government will bring the nation together in a moment of national reflection to mark the 80th anniversaries of VE (Victory in Europe) and VJ (Victory over Japan) Day next year, delivering on our commitment to strengthen community spirit and cohesion and remember the fallen,” Starmer said.
CNN’s Max Foster, Catherine Nicholls and Niamh Kennedy contributed reporting.
