Starmer Makes Historic Trip to Paris for Armistice Day
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will make history on Monday by attending the French Armistice Day ceremony in Paris. Marking 106 years since the 1918 Armistice, he’s the first UK leader to join the event since Winston Churchill in 1944. Invited by French President Emmanuel Macron, Starmer’s visit signals a bold move to reset UK-EU relations post-Brexit.
High-Stakes Meetings with Macron and Barnier
Downing Street confirmed Starmer will hold key talks with Macron and France’s new Prime Minister, Michel Barnier. This will be his first official face-to-face with Barnier since he took office, hinting at fresh collaboration between Britain and France on shared priorities.
Honouring the Fallen at the Arc de Triomphe
Starmer will pay tribute alongside veterans from both sides, remembering those who lost their lives in World War I and later conflicts. “I am honoured to be in Paris to stand united with President Macron in tribute to the fallen of the First World War who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy today,” Starmer said.
He will also lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe, a powerful symbol of remembrance.
Brexit, EU Ties, and a Changing German Landscape
The visit comes as Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s German administration teeters on collapse, a government that had been key to Starmer’s EU engagement. Starmer recently secured a landmark defence deal with Berlin, a win in his mission to “make Brexit work.” With German elections nearly upon us, nurturing ties with France could be crucial for his ongoing EU strategy.
Starmer also announced over £10 million funding for next year’s national commemorations of the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day, honouring the sacrifices of UK and Commonwealth forces.
“This Government will bring the nation together in a moment of national reflection to mark the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day next year,” Starmer pledged, “delivering on our commitment to strengthen community spirit and cohesion and remember the fallen.”
Starmer’s Paris appearance cements his drive to rebuild strong relationships with Europe after Brexit — a clear signal Britain still wants a seat at the continental table.
