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UK and EU Restart Defense Cooperation Talks
The United Kingdom and the European Union are preparing to resume defense talks. Both sides want to strengthen ties in defense, trade, energy, and fisheries.
EU Commissioner to Visit London
EU Commissioner for Trade Maroš Šefčovič will visit London next week. He will meet British officials to discuss defense and other sectors. Sources say the UK wants to restart talks quickly.
Collapse of SAFE Fund Talks
Negotiations over the UK joining the EU’s €150 billion defense fund SAFE collapsed in November 2025. The disagreement focused on the cost and conditions of UK membership.
France denied responsibility for the failed talks, but tensions remain. Germany and other EU countries reportedly want the UK to join the fund soon.
Brussels officials called the collapse “unpleasant.” Both sides had announced plans for “enhanced cooperation” at a May 2025 summit between Keir Starmer and Ursula von der Leyen.
Trade and Student Exchange
Closer UK-EU trade ties remain a priority. The British Chambers of Commerce said stronger trade agreements are a “strategic necessity.” The current Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) has not boosted UK exports to the EU significantly.
The UK and EU agreed to let British students return to the Erasmus+ program. This restores opportunities for study and cultural exchange.
