Sir Keir Starmer hailed a 'generational uplift' in UK-Poland defence ties as he signed a new treaty with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk at RAF Northolt on Wednesday. The leaders visited the Battle of Britain Bunker museum, laying a wreath before formalising the agreement aimed at protecting borders, tackling organised crime, and bolstering collective defences.
Speaking alongside Mr Tusk, Sir Keir cited Russian aggression as the key driver, stating: 'There's no greater challenge for either of our countries than the challenge of Russian aggression.' The treaty, similar to recent UK pacts with France and Germany, is intended to deepen cooperation with the European Union.
Mr Tusk thanked Sir Keir for defending 'our shared values' of rule of law, democracy, and human rights. The Government expects the deal to unlock defence benefits through combined expertise, including co-production of next-generation air defence missiles and increased use of uncrewed systems to reinforce Nato's Eastern Flank.
During the visit, Sir Keir praised Polish pilots who fought alongside the UK in World War II, noting their families remain 'a living part of our community'. A Downing Street spokesperson said both leaders agreed on the need for Europe to step up in Nato and reiterated steadfast support for Ukraine, condemning Russia's continued aggression.
