UK, Germany Sign First Friendship Treaty Since WW2
Above: U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on July 17, 2025. Image copyright: Jaimi Joy/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Merz and Starmer are forging a bold new chapter in U.K.-German relations. The Kensington Treaty marks a historic step toward deeper cooperation on defense, migration and education. Their leadership signals a shared commitment to security, prosperity and youth exchange, laying the groundwork for a stronger, more united Europe in a post-Brexit era.
Government-critical narrative
Merz and Starmer posture as tough leaders, but their actions suggest shallow, symbolic gestures. Merz pushes for long-range weapons to Ukraine without explaining how "deep strike systems" are defensive. Starmer, meanwhile, masks weak migration deals as victories. Both risk escalating conflict while offering little real-world accountability or strategy to help working people.
