Keir Starmer has cautioned that the outcomes of the wars in Iran and Ukraine could leave a lasting imprint on global affairs, warning that the way both conflicts conclude may “define us for a generation”.
The prime minister made the remarks amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump’s attempts to broker a ceasefire with Iran. At the same time, the White House continues efforts to push Ukraine towards a compromise with Russia to end a war that has stretched into its fourth year.
Starmer stressed that both conflicts carry “huge implications” for the future and could significantly reshape the international order.
Starmer Highlights Global Impact Of Iran And Ukraine Conflicts
Speaking to Sky News’ Electoral Dysfunction, Starmer said the wars are “very serious, both of them with huge implications. How they end and on what terms, could well define us for a generation,” he said. “Both of them have those sorts of consequences.
“And that’s why it’s really important that we approach this with our values and principles. That’s what we’ve applied in Ukraine, and that’s what we’ve applied in Iran.”
He added that the UK is working with international partners to form a coalition aimed at keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, after Iran effectively shut down the vital shipping route by targeting vessels passing through it.
“The consequences in terms of our economy are already there, it depends how long it lasts,” he said.
Ukraine War Outcome And Russia’s Future Actions Raise Concerns
Starmer warned that if the war in Ukraine ends on terms favourable to Russia, it could embolden further aggression. “If the Ukraine war ends on terms advantageous for Russia, that will of course ‘cause them to think they can do the same in the future’,” he said.
“That’s a threat across Europe, and if the Iran conflict ends with greater economic harm, then that is going to be impactful – it’s already impactful on countries across the world. We need to see this in those terms.”
When asked whether the current situation mirrored any historical precedent, Starmer said: “I don’t think there’s been any time quite like this.”
He described the moment as both “defining” and a “testing period” for the global community.
UK-US Tensions Grow As Starmer Defends National Interest Stance
The prime minister also addressed tensions with Trump, who has repeatedly criticised the UK and Starmer personally after Downing Street initially refused to grant US access to British military bases for pre-emptive strikes on Iran.
Although the UK later permitted the use of its military sites for “limited and defensive” operations, the disagreement has strained relations.
Starmer insisted his decisions would remain firmly rooted in the national interest.
“Pressure is being put on me by many quarters, whether that was particular leaders in this country before they actually changed their mind pretty soon afterwards, some of the media in this country, but I’ve got to stay focused on what’s in the British national interest,” he told Sky News.
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He added that while he “wanted a good relationship” with Trump, he would not “waiver on this” as his core values are “irreducible”.
“I’m not going to back down. I’m absolutely clear about the values and the principles that I’m applying here. And anybody who thinks that I’m going to act in anything other than the British national interest…”
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