Macron's visit marks a crucial step in post-Brexit relations. After years of tension, Starmer's entente restoration signals a united continent. Facing Putin's aggression and Trump's indifference, these nuclear powers must forge a coalition of the willing that transcends nationalism. Aside from the glitz and the pageantry, Macron's visit is a welcome reminder that Europe must work together in lockstep.
Macron's visit is but a mask for failure. Once promising to transcend politics, Macron has become a lame duck since his election gamble left France ungovernable. Meanwhile, Starmer's "reset" is meaningless to the British public, with the prime minister unable to secure a deal to end the Channel migrant chaos. Both weakened leaders are using diplomatic theatre to distract from domestic collapse.