Happy Dayz

BREAKING: Keir Starmer’s speech at Munich Security Conference is by far his most detailed analysis of British foreign policy and European security to date. — he rejects talk of a “rupture” with the US, warning “that could prove to be a moment of destruction.” The US “remains an indispensable ally.” But still he says “we recognise things are changing,” and that transatlantic relations must undertake “radical renewal.” — that means “rather than pretending we can replace all US capabilities, we should decrease some dependencies and diversify.” He calls for closer UK-EU cooperation on defence financing. — says “we are not the Britain of the Brexit years any more,” calling for closer UK-EU relations on defence and trade, to loud applause in the room. — directly says he will pursue “closer economic alignment” with the EU. “We must look at where we can move closer to the single market… the prize here is greater security and stronger growth.” Admits that will mean political “tradeoffs” domestically but vows he will proceed because it’s in the national interest, again to applause. — Says Europe is a “sleeping giant” and “we need to deliver a step change on collaboration.” Says that in the 1930s leaders were too slow to level with the public about the realities and that now they “must build consent about decisions we must take to make us safe.” — “we are not at a crossroads today. The road ahead is straight and clear. We must build our hard power because that is the currency of the age.” That will spur expectations that he has to more rapidly increase defence spending — says UK will deploy Carrier Strike Group to the Arctic this year alongside US and Canadian forces — warns that Russia is rearming and that if there is a peace deal in Ukraine that rearmament will accelerate and increase the threat to Europe. — vows the UK would defend any NATO country that comes under attack under Article 5. “Be in no doubt, if called upon the UK would come to your aid today”

I can’t wait for humanity to set foot on Mars. It looks amazing!