Outgoing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer says his successor will not be able to spend less time on international diplomacy and crises than he has. In a BBC interview, Starmer rejects criticism that his premiership has been too focused on foreign policy, arguing that domestic and international issues are linked and “one and the same thing.” He says Britain faces an increasingly volatile world where foreign and domestic priorities cannot be separated. Starmer also points to achievements he attributes to his government’s international engagement, including restoring the UK’s global standing and supporting Ukraine. He references Britain’s involvement in international coalitions as part of what he says has improved the country’s leadership role. The comments come as some opponents and potential successors argue for a stronger domestic agenda. One named example is Labour figure Andy Burnham, who has promised to focus on domestic priorities such as living standards, housing, infrastructure, and devolving more power to regions. Starmer said he will step down after two years in office, and he uses that transition to defend the balance he says Britain must maintain.