Munich, Germany – A decade after the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, leaders on both sides of the Channel are signaling a renewed commitment to closer cooperation, particularly in the realms of security and defense. The shift in tone comes amid growing global instability and a perceived need for a more unified front, as articulated at the Munich Security Conference over the weekend.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at the conference on , emphasized the interconnectedness of European and British interests. “Europe and in particular the UK should come closer together… 10 years on from Brexit our futures are as bound as ever,” she stated, calling for increased collaboration on “security, on the economy… on defending our democracies.” Her remarks suggest a pragmatic reassessment of post-Brexit relations, prioritizing shared security concerns over lingering political divisions.
The call for closer ties was echoed by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who stressed the importance of bolstering Britain’s “hard power” and military readiness. “We are not at a crossroads: The road ahead is straight and it is clear. We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age,” Starmer said. He further emphasized the need for preparedness, stating, “We must be able to deter aggression and, yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight.”
Starmer’s vision extends beyond simply increasing military spending. He advocated for the development of “a shared industrial base across Europe which can turbocharge our defence production” and “multiply our strengths.” This proposal suggests a desire to move towards greater strategic autonomy in defense manufacturing, reducing reliance on external suppliers and fostering a more integrated European defense industry. The concept of a shared industrial base is particularly noteworthy, hinting at a potential reversal of the fragmentation that followed Brexit, where supply chains and research collaborations were disrupted.
The renewed emphasis on security cooperation isn’t occurring in a vacuum. The Munich Security Conference, an annual gathering of global leaders and security experts, took place against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions, most notably the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and broader concerns about Russian aggression. This context undoubtedly informed the discussions and contributed to the sense of urgency surrounding the need for a more unified European response.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, also speaking on , underscored the importance of a strong transatlantic alliance, stating that “a strong Europe in a strong NATO means that the transatlantic bond will be stronger than ever.” This statement highlights the understanding that European security is inextricably linked to the United States, and that strengthening European capabilities should complement, not replace, the existing NATO framework.
French President Emmanuel Macron similarly called for a more assertive Europe, arguing that “What we have is the right time for a strong Europe,” one that is “building its own architecture of security.” Macron’s comments reflect a long-held belief in the need for greater European strategic autonomy, a position that has sometimes put him at odds with other European leaders. However, the current geopolitical climate appears to be fostering a greater degree of consensus around the need for Europe to take a more proactive role in its own defense.
Keir Starmer’s efforts to reset ties with the EU since assuming office in – four years after the UK officially exited the bloc – are now bearing fruit. His leadership in coordinating European support for Ukraine has been seen as a key step in rebuilding trust and demonstrating a willingness to work collaboratively with European partners. This proactive approach contrasts with the more confrontational stance adopted by some of his predecessors and signals a potential turning point in post-Brexit relations.
The implications of this renewed cooperation extend beyond the immediate security concerns. A stronger economic partnership, as suggested by von der Leyen, could provide a much-needed boost to both the European and British economies. Increased investment in defense industries could create jobs and stimulate innovation. However, significant challenges remain. Navigating the complexities of post-Brexit trade arrangements and addressing lingering political sensitivities will require careful diplomacy and a sustained commitment from both sides.
The shift in rhetoric and the willingness to explore closer cooperation represent a significant development in the ongoing saga of Brexit. While the fundamental political and economic realities of the UK’s departure remain unchanged, the recognition of shared security interests and the need for a unified response to global challenges are creating new opportunities for collaboration. Whether this translates into concrete action remains to be seen, but the signals from Munich suggest a willingness to move beyond the divisions of the past and forge a new path forward.
