Starmer Calls for Renewed ‘Hard Power’ Investment at European Security Summit
UK Prime Minister urges stronger defence capabilities and deeper coordination with allies amid mounting continental threats
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared that the United Kingdom and its European partners must rebuild and strengthen their "hard power" capabilities, warning that a more volatile global environment demands renewed focus on defence and deterrence.
Speaking at a major European security conference, Starmer argued that the era of assuming lasting peace on the continent has passed, citing Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and intensifying geopolitical competition.
He said Europe must be prepared to defend itself with credible military strength while remaining anchored in alliances.
The prime minister stressed that the UK would continue to play a leading role in NATO and deepen defence cooperation with European allies.
He highlighted commitments to increase defence spending, modernise armed forces capabilities and invest in advanced technologies, including cyber and intelligence systems.
Starmer framed the shift not as a departure from diplomacy but as a necessary complement to it.
"We must be serious about hard power," he said, arguing that economic resilience and military readiness together form the foundation of long-term security.
He also emphasised the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure and reinforcing supply chains in strategic sectors.
The speech comes as European governments reassess their defence postures in light of sustained conflict on the continent and uncertainties about future transatlantic dynamics.
Several countries have pledged to raise defence spending toward or above NATO’s benchmark of two per cent of gross domestic product, with discussions under way about more ambitious targets.
Starmer’s remarks signal a recalibration in Britain’s security messaging, positioning the UK as both a transatlantic bridge and a central European security actor.
Officials say further announcements on defence procurement and force readiness are expected in the coming months.
The address underscored a broader consensus emerging across Europe that military preparedness and industrial capacity are essential to preserving stability in an increasingly contested strategic landscape.
Speaking at a major European security conference, Starmer argued that the era of assuming lasting peace on the continent has passed, citing Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and intensifying geopolitical competition.
He said Europe must be prepared to defend itself with credible military strength while remaining anchored in alliances.
The prime minister stressed that the UK would continue to play a leading role in NATO and deepen defence cooperation with European allies.
He highlighted commitments to increase defence spending, modernise armed forces capabilities and invest in advanced technologies, including cyber and intelligence systems.
Starmer framed the shift not as a departure from diplomacy but as a necessary complement to it.
"We must be serious about hard power," he said, arguing that economic resilience and military readiness together form the foundation of long-term security.
He also emphasised the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure and reinforcing supply chains in strategic sectors.
The speech comes as European governments reassess their defence postures in light of sustained conflict on the continent and uncertainties about future transatlantic dynamics.
Several countries have pledged to raise defence spending toward or above NATO’s benchmark of two per cent of gross domestic product, with discussions under way about more ambitious targets.
Starmer’s remarks signal a recalibration in Britain’s security messaging, positioning the UK as both a transatlantic bridge and a central European security actor.
Officials say further announcements on defence procurement and force readiness are expected in the coming months.
The address underscored a broader consensus emerging across Europe that military preparedness and industrial capacity are essential to preserving stability in an increasingly contested strategic landscape.
