At the Munich Security Conference on 13 February, the Prime Minister met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron. According to an official Downing Street readout published the same day, the three leaders reaffirmed coordinated work with partners to strengthen collective defence and security.
The UK Government summary records agreement that Europe should “step up” and take on a greater share of responsibility while safeguarding the strength of the Euro‑Atlantic partnership. The Prime Minister said the UK should make full use of its defence capability to reinforce shared security and deliver for the public at home, as set out in the readout from 10 Downing Street.
Policy Wire analysis: The emphasis on burden‑sharing highlights both fiscal and industrial dimensions-sustained defence spending, faster delivery timelines and tighter coordination on munitions and air defence. The reference to protecting the Euro‑Atlantic partnership signals that European increases are intended to complement, not substitute, transatlantic commitments.
On Ukraine, the leaders confirmed “enduring support” in response to recent Russian attacks and restated backing for efforts towards a just and lasting peace, as reported by the Prime Minister’s Office. While no new package or figures were announced in this statement, the language provides political continuity for ongoing military and financial assistance.
For UK officials, the communiqué functions as intent rather than programme detail. It points to continued alignment with Berlin and Paris on collective defence while leaving room for specifics to be taken forward through NATO and EU‑aligned mechanisms, including industrial output, stockpile regeneration and air defence priorities.
The readout notes that further discussions in Munich are planned across the weekend. Observers will look for signs of convergence on procurement signals and delivery schedules, and for any clarification of how European allies plan to carry a larger share of deterrence and Ukraine support through 2026.
Given the absence of new numbers, delivery will be judged in the coming months by contracted volumes, production ramp‑up and the clarity of roles across UK, German and French initiatives. The political direction from Munich is clear; the operational test now lies in implementation across defence departments and industry.