Burnham, Merz Ratify 2025 Kensington Treaty as Russia Threats Drive UK-Germany Security Push
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Oct 8
Burnham, Merz Ratify 2025 Kensington Treaty as Russia Threats Drive UK-Germany Security Push
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Oct 8
Summary
Berlin will host Andy Burnham and Friedrich Merz on Thursday for formal ratification of the 2025 Kensington Treaty, deepening UK-Germany cooperation on defence, security, technology and growth.
Hybrid threats from Russia are driving the agenda, with the leaders set to focus on cyberattacks and sabotage after intelligence services in both countries warned of rising risks.
Germany last month accused Russia of launching an explosives-fitted drone at Leipzig/Halle Airport, underscoring Burnham's call to "find, expose and disrupt" attacks on infrastructure, businesses and democracies.
The visit also lands as Burnham pushes options for closer UK-EU ties, including a possible return to the bloc, while Berlin has signaled support for stronger UK-EU relations.
Both leaders enter the talks under domestic political pressure, and the meeting comes days after Germany's arrest of former BND chief August Hanning on espionage and treason suspicions.