Keir Starmer made a significant statement of European unity by joining Emmanuel Macron in Paris for the French Armistice Day ceremony, just a few days after Donald Trump’s re-election. The meeting, which took place against the backdrop of concerns over Ukraine and defense discussions, highlighted key topics between the two leaders.

Starmer became the first British leader since Winston Churchill in 1944 to attend France’s national remembrance event.

The gathering is being seen by both the UK and France as a significant moment of collaboration, symbolizing a strengthened European partnership between two major Nato powers, at a time when Trump's victory has left many in Europe questioning the future of the alliance.

The prime minister traveled to Paris on Monday morning, where he joined both British and French veterans in the commemorations. He also had a breakfast meeting with members of the British defense community in France.

A spokesperson for No 10 revealed that the main focus of the conversation between Starmer and Macron was Ukraine. “The leaders discussed the situation in Ukraine and how to ensure it is in the best possible state as winter approaches,” they said.

Additionally, the two leaders expressed concern over developments in the Middle East, particularly regarding Gaza, Lebanon, and the need for stability in the West Bank.

Regarding cross-channel issues, the prime minister emphasized his focus on stopping illegal human smuggling operations in Europe. There was strong mutual agreement on the importance of tackling illegal migration throughout each stage of the journey.

Whitehall officials have been instructed to study how Trump’s victory could affect the final outcome of the strategic defense review (SDR), expected to be presented by spring. Starmer, alongside Chancellor Rachel Reeves, is preparing to outline how the UK can achieve Nato's 2.5% GDP defense spending goal within that timeframe.

Both Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy have cited defense spending as a shared interest with Trump, who has consistently pressured Nato allies to increase their financial commitments and lessen dependency on U.S. defense funding.

Trump has long urged Nato member states to raise their defense contributions to 3%, which surpasses the UK's current contributions. Speaking during his presidential campaign in August, Trump said, "Every Nato nation should contribute at least 3%. The 2% target is nothing short of a great bargain—especially when we’re footing much of the bill."

During his campaign, Trump also vowed to resolve Russia’s invasion of Ukraine within a day, though he did not elaborate on the specifics. His vice-presidential pick, JD Vance, has been outspoken in opposing more financial aid for Ukraine.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump’s strategy for peace could involve establishing an 800-mile demilitarized zone between Russian and Ukrainian forces, monitored by European military personnel.

Bryan Lanza, a long-time adviser to Trump, recently suggested on the BBC that Trump might pressure Ukraine into territorial concessions. “When President Zelenskyy claims peace will come once Crimea is returned, it’s clear Crimea is already lost,” Lanza said. However, a Trump transition team spokesperson later clarified that Lanza’s views did not represent the president-elect's position.

Over the weekend, a UK cabinet minister confirmed that the government was preparing for various potential shifts in U.S. policy on Ukraine due to Trump's presidency.

Speaking to Sky News, MP Darren Jones said, “Officials are reviewing multiple scenarios. We are preparing for all possibilities, ensuring the UK holds a strong stance.” Jones reassured that the UK would stand by its commitments, clarifying, “We’re offering £3bn annually, a considerable amount given the UK’s fiscal situation, but the right choice.”

However, Jones was non-committal about whether defense spending would reach 2.5% of GDP by the end of the current parliament. He emphasized that while security remains a priority, difficult trade-offs must be made.

Defense analysts believe Trump's presidency reinforces the urgency for Nato allies to strengthen cooperation.

Dr. Karin von Hippel, director of the Royal United Services Institute, remarked on the symbolic nature of Starmer and Macron’s united front. “This is a key moment for the UK and the European Union to rebuild relations, especially as Trump continues to distance America from Europe. It’s also crucial that Britain enhances bilateral ties with other European countries,” she said.

Von Hippel warned that Europe—including the UK—can no longer rely on America as in the past. “Enhancing diplomatic relations and preparing for areas of disagreement with the U.S. is essential in this new era,” she added.

Later on Monday, Starmer is also scheduled to meet with the recently appointed French prime minister, Michel Barnier, with whom Starmer has had several discussions during the Brexit negotiations.

Starmer spoke of the significance of the day, saying, “It’s a true honor to stand alongside President Macron and pay my respects to those who gave their lives in the first world war for the freedoms we now hold dear."

Starmer also announced a £10 million pledge toward commemorating the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day next year, on 8 May and 15 August. He promised the events would feature tens of thousands of participating military personnel.

The prime minister reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine, regardless of the approach taken by the next U.S. administration, although some in Kyiv have expressed frustration at Britain’s delay in sending additional long-range missiles.

Meanwhile, UK Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin has revealed that Russia continues to experience significant losses. He stated that roughly 1,500 Russian soldiers are being killed or wounded every day, with October marking the worst month of defeats since the invasion began in February 2022.