Britain's Bid to Join EU Defence Fund SAFE Stumbles

Britain's negotiations to join the EU's 150 billion euro defence fund, SAFE, have failed, dashing hopes for a post-Brexit improvement in EU relations. Despite the setback, British defence firms can still engage with SAFE projects under certain terms. Talks were deemed constructive but unfruitful.

In a significant setback to post-Brexit relations, the UK announced on Friday that talks to join the European Union's defence fund, SAFE, have broken down. This development disrupts efforts to strengthen defence ties across the continent.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer had previously celebrated a potential new era for UK-EU relations in May, with intentions to reset defence and trade ties, including a negotiation to contribute to the 150 billion euro fund aimed at rearming Europe. However, just days before the deadline, Britain confirmed that reaching an agreement was not feasible.

Despite the setback, UK defence companies will still have opportunities to participate in projects under third country terms within SAFE. An EU Commission spokesperson expressed that discussions were conducted constructively, and there remains room for UK participation up to a 35% threshold.

(With inputs from agencies.)