The European Union and the United Kingdom are set to unveil a new defense and security cooperation agreement this week, marking the closest level of collaboration since the UK’s departure from the EU, The Times reports.
According to the publication, the document states that both parties are facing “the greatest threat of a generation,” primarily due to Russia’s war against Ukraine. The pact envisions deeper coordination within NATO operations and includes a mechanism for joint action should the United States choose not to participate in such initiatives.
The agreement also establishes regular strategic consultations between UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, to be held at least twice a year.
However, British defense firms will not gain automatic access to the EU’s new €150 billion defense fund. Their participation will depend on separate negotiations and conditions, including potential financial contributions from the UK.
