Starmer hosts German chancellor at Chequers to discuss UK-EU relations

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at his country estate, Chequers, to discuss improving U.K.-EU relations. They plan to meet with EU leaders in Belgium to pursue a "reset" in their partnership. Starmer emphasized a closer relationship on defense, energy, and trade, while ruling out rejoining the EU. The leaders discussed shared commitments to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia and the need for coordinated defense efforts. The meeting comes as Scholz faces a challenging re-election campaign in Germany. Both leaders noted progress in their countries' relations, highlighting a defense pact signed in October to enhance European security.