As the world grapples with the shifting geopolitical landscape, the United Kingdom finds itself at a critical juncture. The threats posed by the Trump administration have made it clear that the UK’s best path forward lies in strengthening its ties with Europe, according to Stella Creasey, chair of the Labour Movement for Europe.
In the wake of the upheaval within NATO and the growing tensions between the US and its European allies, the UK must urgently seek new roles and alliances to enhance its own security and military capabilities. Creasey argues that unilateral actions, such as evicting US bases or scrapping Trident, would do little to address the underlying issues and would be met with alarm from the UK’s European partners.
Instead, the Labour party must lead the charge in forging new relationships and decision-making bodies within the European security framework. This includes exploring a UK role in a potential European Security Council and deepening cooperation with the EU, both through the European pillar of NATO and direct EU initiatives.
The article warns that the UK cannot afford to be caught in the crossfire between the US and its rivals, such as China and Russia. Capitulating to US trade demands and diverging further from Europe would be a form of self-harm, as the UK’s security and economic interests are inextricably linked.
Creasey emphasizes that the UK must break the cycle of posturing and urgently resume discussions on the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) scheme, which would fund joint EU defence projects. Furthermore, the Labour party should be open to renegotiating all barriers to cooperation, including integration with the single market in a Swiss-style deal.
The author argues that true progressive politics compels a bolder approach, one that recognizes the reality that the UK’s future security and prosperity are firmly tied to its relationship with Europe. The time has come for the UK to embrace this reality and take decisive steps to strengthen its strategic alliance with its European partners.
