British Prime Minister Keir Starmer says he will bring the UK closer to the European Union, as he faces growing calls within and beyond his Labour Party for him to step down. Multiple outlets report the pledge comes after poor Labour results in recent local elections, which have prompted criticism of his leadership. Starmer frames the move toward closer EU ties as part of a broader effort to address what he describes as major national challenges and to respond to “doubters” among party members and voters. Sources also note that the UK left the EU about six years ago, and that Starmer’s approach seeks to reverse some of the damage associated with that departure by pursuing closer cooperation. Some reporting also indicates discontent is rising among backbench MPs and that Starmer is trying to reassure both internal critics and the wider electorate. Overall, the coverage portrays a leadership dispute rooted in election performance, with Starmer responding by emphasizing a policy direction that he says could improve the country’s prospects and help stabilize his position.