Macron, Starmer Meet in London for Channel Migration Talks

French President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to the UK highlights ongoing tensions and contrasts in Franco-British relations, particularly regarding migration and nuclear veterans. Macron has been praised for compensating French nuclear veterans with nearly £10 million paid out, while Keir Starmer faces criticism for allegedly neglecting British nuclear veterans and for reportedly agreeing to a limited migrant returns deal that could see only 50 Channel migrants returned to France weekly. This deal has sparked backlash from former Home Secretaries and Conservative figures who argue it fails to provide a sufficient deterrent against illegal crossings. The visit also underscores Starmer's efforts to strengthen ties with Europe, including hosting a summit with business leaders to discuss trade and tech, amid concerns over potential Brexit concessions such as a 12-year agreement on British fishing waters. Macron's approach to Brexit has been described as strategic and victorious, having leveraged the negotiations to his advantage, while Starmer's government is seen as pursuing pragmatic rapprochement despite domestic criticism. The summit is expected to address these issues further, with Macron engaging with UK political leaders and the Royal Family during his visit.