Security in Europe

Starmer: Europe must be ready to fight

Europe must be ready to fight if necessary, said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during his speech at the Munich Security Conference, Reuters reports.

– It is clear that we must build raw power, because that is the currency of our time, said Starmer.

He stressed that Europe must be able to stand on its own two feet when it comes to both deterrence and defending its territory and values. At the same time, the United States continues to be an “indispensable ally,” said Starmer.

The tone was similar from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. She noted that security has not always been a priority issue in Europe.

– Europe needs to step up and take responsibility for its own security, she said.

UK to send aircraft carrier to Arctic

UK will send the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales to the Arctic region this year in a “powerful show of force [...] to counter Russian aggression and protect vital infrastructure below the surface”, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, according to AFP.

The so-called “Operation Firecrest” also involves the United States, Canada and other NATO allies. The battle group includes several warships, F-35 fighter jets and helicopters. Thousands of personnel from the British army, navy and air force are participating.

France has also announced that an aircraft carrier battle group will be sent to the region in 2026.