Archive · 28 Nov 2025
UK-EU Defence Fund Talks Break Down
The UK and EU were trying to make a deal so the UK could join a big fund called SAFE to help Europe buy weapons and defence stuff.
But they couldn't agree on the rules, so the talks ended without a deal.
The UK said it wouldn't sign anything that wasn't good for its country.
The EU said the UK can still join some projects, but not as a full member.
Both sides said they tried their best to make it work.
The UK's big defence companies like BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce didn't see their stock prices change because of this news.
Talks between the UK and EU to join the 150 billion euro SAFE defence fund have broken down.
The UK cited national interest and value for money as reasons for not reaching an agreement.
The EU stated that the UK can still participate in projects up to a 35% limit.
Both sides claimed the negotiations were conducted in good faith.
Shares of major UK defence companies remained unaffected by the news.
- Who
- UK and EU officials
- What
- Breakdown of talks to join EU's defence fund SAFE
- When
- Friday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- London and Brussels
- Why
- Disagreement on terms and national interest
- Fund Name
- SAFE
- Fund Amount
- 150 billion euros ($173 billion)
- UK Minister
- Nick Thomas-Symonds
- EU Component Limit
- 35% of component costs
- UK Defence Companies
- BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Babcock