‘NATO is in US interests’: UK PM Keir Starmer defends alliance after US threat to withdraw troops

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Friday that NATO was firmly “in the interests of the United States” as he vigorously defended the alliance while acknowledging that European countries must do more.He described NATO as “by far the most effective military alliance in the world,” adding that it had made both Europe and the United States safer for decades.

U.S. response to criticism

Starmer’s response came after US President Donald Trump stepped up his criticism of Nato and renewed his threat to quit the organization, citing dissatisfaction with defense spending and a lack of support during the conflict with Iran.

After a phone call with Trump, the British prime minister reiterated that the alliance was in the security interests of the United States and Europe and should be strengthened, not weakened.

Promote Europe to play a greater role

Starmer acknowledged that concerns raised by Washington were not unfounded and said European countries needed to increase their contributions and play a greater role in the alliance.He said a stronger European pillar within NATO would ultimately make the alliance more balanced and resilient.

Focus on the Strait of Hormuz

Much of Starmer’s discussions with Trump focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route disrupted by the war with Iran.The UK is working with allies on a “realistic plan” involving diplomatic coordination and potential military logistics to restore safe navigation.

Fragile ceasefire, long-term consequences

Starmer warned that the current ceasefire between the United States and Iran remained “fragile” and required sustained efforts from the international community. He added that the conflict could “define our generation”, underscoring its far-reaching impact.He also expressed frustration with rising energy costs, linking them to global instability driven by leaders like Vladimir Putin and Trump.Meanwhile, Ed Davey welcomed Starmer’s stance, describing Trump’s stance on Nato as “disturbing” and urging greater cooperation with allies around the world.Starmer concluded by stressing the need for coordinated international action and said the UK would continue to work with partners to strengthen NATO and resolve the wider Middle East crisis.