Chris Mason: Starmer upends Labour manifesto to confront Europe's new reality

Ahead of a significant meeting, this marks a crucial moment and a momentous decision. The government's announcement of a substantial increase in defense spending, coupled with cuts to the international aid budget, signifies a major shift in its strategy, posture, and political stance.

For further evidence, one can refer to the Labour Party's election manifesto released less than a year ago. Page 125 of the manifesto explicitly stated: "Labour is committed to restoring spending on development assistance to 0.7% of gross national income as soon as fiscal circumstances allow." However, the party is now pledging the exact opposite, namely cutting development assistance by the same amount it previously promised to increase it.

An outspoken American president and an upcoming visit to the White House undoubtedly contribute to a sobering effect. This announcement comes as the Prime Minister packs his bags for a transatlantic trip. Shortly thereafter, the Trump administration also expressed its approval. But it is equally undeniable that there has been a gradual, cross-party recognition of the need to increase defense spending.

The Prime Minister often recalls his feelings when the Berlin Wall fell, stating, "It felt like we were unshackled from history, a continent uniting in freedom and democracy." He contrasts this with the reality of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A broader critique has also been brewing: the feeling that the 1990s were a historical holiday, as Jonathan Freedland put it, the end of the Cold War created a peace dividend, defense budgets could shrink, and funds could be diverted to areas like hospitals and schools.

However, not only is there a war in Europe, but the occupant of the White House seems indifferent to the American security umbrella upon which the continent has relied since World War II. It is no wonder that we are seeing panic in European capitals, with presidents and prime ministers struggling to understand what this might mean.

Starmer's task – as the second European leader to visit Washington, following French President Macron – is to try to shape President Trump's position. Can an agreement be reached in the coming weeks and months that both deters further aggression, avoids Ukraine feeling defeated, Europe feeling endangered, and keeps transatlantic relations as close as possible to the traditional model? This will be no easy feat.

The Prime Minister's White House trip is just the first step in addressing these issues. The following weekend, Starmer will host a meeting of European leaders to reflect on the progress of the discussions so far. President Zelensky is also expected to visit Washington soon. The coming weeks could prove to be critical.