UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will urge European countries to step up and take on a greater share of defense and security responsibilities as Russia’s war in Ukraine approaches the end of its third year.

Sir Keir Starmer is heading to Brussels to join a gathering of European Union leaders – the first time a British prime minister has done so since Brexit. Starmer is heading over the English Channel for talks focused on defence and security co-operation and will also meet Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Yvette Cooper also said that a customs union, single market and a youth mobility scheme with the EU are 'red lines' Labour will not cross

The Prime Minister will urge Europe to bear down on Russia when he meets the heads of the 27 EU governments on Monday.