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WorldPublished: 23 June 2026 at 15:21

European media bemused by Downing Street's post-Brexit 'revolving door'

European media comment on UK political instability after Keir Starmer's resignation, pointing to Brexit as the main cause for the frequent change of prime ministers.

Foto: The Guardian World

European media are watching the UK's political situation with bewilderment and criticism following Keir Starmer's sudden resignation as prime minister. Several outlets note that the country, once a beacon of political stability, now faces constant upheaval.

Germany's Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung asks whether the premiership is an impossible job, emphasizing that many have failed in the role. It explicitly links Starmer's downfall to Brexit and internal party discontent.

Spain's El País, in a special feature on "the political crisis in Britain," writes that Brexit promises have been broken, the economy and welfare state have not improved, and the political right is stronger than ever. La Vanguardia compares Downing Street to a revolving door, highlighting instability.

France's Libération published a piece on "10 years of Brexit and an immense waste," arguing that Starmer was brought to power more by voters' rejection of the Conservatives than by support for his own program.

Germany's Der Spiegel calls Downing Street a "transit station," recalling that recent incumbents include a gambler, a populist, and a prime minister who lasted only six weeks.

Denmark's Børsen says Starmer was "chased down by both the recent and the distant past," with Brexit consequences being a major challenge. Since the EU referendum, the UK has had seven heads of government.

However, there were sympathetic voices. The Netherlands' Trouw defends Starmer, arguing his achievements went unnoticed due to poor communication, and the next leader must be better at self-promotion.

A comment piece in Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung predicts that Andy Burnham's elevation will not change the problems, with the headline: "New head, old problems."

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