European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has paid tribute to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer following his decision to step down as Labour leader and prime minister.
In a message posted online on Monday, von der Leyen described Starmer as a statesman whose leadership strengthened European and Ukrainian security.
“It can take many leaders years to grow into the statesman you became in just two years. European and Ukrainian security is stronger because of you. Thank you, dear Keir,” she wrote.
Starmer earlier announced that he would resign as both prime minister and leader of the Labour Party, bringing an end to months of political uncertainty and triggering a leadership race to determine his successor.
His decision comes amid growing pressure following Labour’s poor performance in local elections held in May, as well as increasing criticism from within his own party over his leadership style and policy direction.
The resignation marks a dramatic turn in Starmer’s political fortunes less than two years after he guided Labour to a commanding victory in the 2024 general election, securing one of the party’s largest parliamentary majorities in recent history.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street shortly after 9:30 a.m. in London, Starmer said he would remain in office until the Labour Party completes the process of selecting a new leader.
According to him, staying on during the transition period would help ensure a smooth and orderly transfer of power.
