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Snapshot 7:Fri, Jul 18, 2025 5:19:36 AM GMT last edited by SofiaLanfri

UK, Germany Sign First Friendship Treaty Since WW2

UK, Germany Sign First Friendship Treaty sinceSince WW2

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 credit: Jaimi Joy/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The Spin


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.

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.


Metaculus Prediction

There is a 50% chance that the U.K. will apply to rejoin the EU by October 2038, according to the Metaculus prediction community.


Public Figures


The Controversies



Go Deeper

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 7.4.1

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 7.4.1