European Leaders Convene Amid Concerns Over Potential Trump Return

European leaders meet in the U.K. to discuss energy, migration, and Russia's threat. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to strengthen ties with the EU and support Ukraine. Concerns linger over the U.S. as Trump aims for a second presidency. Key European and NATO leaders are attending the summit.

Leaders from across Europe gathered at an English country mansion on Thursday for a summit clouded by worries over the United States' reliability should Donald Trump secure a second presidency.

Newly elected U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is hosting 45 heads of government to discuss migration, energy security, and the threat from Russia. Starmer aims to restore relations between the U.K. and its European Union neighbors, four years after their acrimonious split.

At the European Political Community summit, Starmer will emphasize that the U.K. plans to play a more active global role, particularly in aiding Ukraine against Russia and tackling people-smuggling operations. "We cannot let the challenges of the recent past define our relationships of the future," Starmer stated.

The guest list includes prominent leaders such as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.

Starmer faces the delicate task of rebuilding strained U.K.-EU ties following Brexit. A new U.K.-EU security pact is a key priority. Delegates will discuss defending democracy against external interference and disinformation, particularly from Russia.

Despite the familiar British hospitality, including a reception hosted by King Charles III, many attendees have their minds on the U.S. and the polarizing political landscape, especially with Trump as a significant factor. Trump's choice of Sen. J.D. Vance as his running mate has only fueled unease among the allies.

(With inputs from agencies.)