By Oluwakemi Kindness
European Commission President Ursula, von der Leyen has praised British Prime Minister Keir Starmer following his announcement that he will step down as Labour Party leader and Prime Minister.
Von der Leyen described Starmer as a leader who quickly rose into statesmanship, saying his leadership had strengthened both 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 in a post on social media.
Starmer announced earlier on Monday that he would resign as Labour leader, triggering a leadership contest within the party, but said he would remain in office until a successor is chosen to ensure an orderly transition.
His resignation follows months of political pressure, including poor results for Labour in recent local elections and internal disagreements within the party.
Despite leading Labour to a major parliamentary victory in 2024, his tenure was later marked by growing political tensions and declining public support.
