UK PM Keir Starmer awarded France's Legion of Honour

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been awarded France's Legion of Honour, becoming the first serving British prime minister to receive the country's highest national award. The presentation by President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Monday, July 13, recognized Starmer's role in European security and his support for Ukraine.

The award was given at the conclusion of what was described as Starmer's final summit of the "Coalition of the Willing," a group of more than 30 nations co-chaired by Britain and France that provides financial and military backing to Ukraine. In his remarks, Macron expressed gratitude for Starmer's leadership and commitment to European security, bilateral relations, and Ukraine. He described Starmer as a reliable and friendly partner.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also thanked the outgoing prime minister at the event. Zelensky praised Starmer's steadfast support, which Starmer indicated would continue under his successor.

On Tuesday, July 14, Starmer remained in Paris for Bastille Day celebrations, another of his final international engagements. He met with British troops before watching the military parade alongside...