Published On: Thu, Nov 7th, 2024
Top Stories | 4,959 views

Keir Starmer humiliated as Hungarian PM greets every leader except him | Politics | News


Sir Keir Starmer has been humiliated after he turned up late to the European Political Community Summit in Budapest, meaning he missed out on a greeting from Hungarian leader Viktor Orban.

Footage shared online showed Mr Orban embracing leaders from the EU, Ukraine, France, and Italy.

But as Sir Keir exited his vehicle outside the summit, he was left on his own before eventually being guided into the summit by an official.

The Labour Party leader was not welcomed in the same way as others because he had turned up late to the EU event and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had already started his speech.

Presidents and Prime Ministers from across Europe are meeting to discuss several issues, including Russia’s war in Ukraine.

However, the reelection of President-elect Donald Trump in the US will undoubtedly also be a major talking point.

Ukraine could emerge as a major dividing point between Europe and the US after Mr Trump’s repeated refusal to commit to continuing support for Kyiv.

The EU itself has seen some division. While most leaders are firmly behind Ukraine, Hungary’s Mr Orban has angered other EU leaders by criticising the West’s strong stance against Russia.

During Mr Trump’s first term in office, he repeatedly criticised European allies for not meeting their NATO defence spending commitments.

Earlier this year, he stirred controversy when suggesting he would “encourage” Russia to attack countries that had not met their spending targets.

He said: “NATO was busted until I came along. I said, ‘Everybody’s gonna pay.’ They said, ‘Well, if we don’t pay, are you still going to protect us?’ I said, ‘Absolutely not.’ They couldn’t believe the answer.

“No, I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You got to pay. You got to pay your bills.”

Following Mr Trump’s historic win, Sir Keir congratulated him via a post on X before having a phone call with him.

The Prime Minister said: “Good to speak with President-elect @realDonaldTrump to congratulate him on his historic victory. I look forward to working together.

“From defence and security to growth and prosperity, the relationship between the UK and US is incredibly strong and will continue to thrive for many years to come.”



Source link