Leaders from the Scottish National Party (SNP), Plaid Cymru, and Sinn Féin have formalized an alliance aimed at dismantling the United Kingdom. The parties signed a memorandum of understanding during a "separatist summit" in Cardiff, outlining plans for closer cooperation on issues including independence referendums.
The agreement commits the parties to "strengthening cooperation" and identifying "practical areas where working together can make a real difference." It asserts that "Westminster's time is coming to an end" and promotes a vision of "nations working together as equals." The signatories also expressed a shared ambition to rejoin the European Union.
SNP leader and First Minister of Scotland John Swinney stated that the meeting represented a "pivotal moment in the constitutional journey of the UK." He added that there should be "no obstacle" to the devolved nations determining their own futures.
The pact comes shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his support for a united Ireland, calling it "one of the naturals of all time." Trump's remarks, made during a visit to Ireland, have drawn criticism from pro-union politicians.
Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton criticized the SNP's focus on independence, stating, "The majority of Scots don't want another damaging and divisive referendum. They want Swinney to do his actual job." She pointed to recent PISA scores that placed Scotland behind England in education outcomes.
Michelle O'Neill, Sinn Féin leader and First Minister of Northern Ireland, emphasized the collective assertion of the "inalienable right to decide our futures." However, DUP joint head of the Stormont Executive, Ms. Little-Pengelly, cautioned that O'Neill was not attending the summit in her official capacity as First Minister and lacked the authority to sign any agreements as such.
The memorandum outlines plans to "reject Whitehall's broken economic model" and foster collaboration on economic growth, energy resources, and international cooperation, with a stated belief that "the future of our nations belongs in the European Union."