The European Union and the United Kingdom are set to sign a significant defense and security agreement at the summit scheduled for May 19, 2025.
This move is a response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to reduce NATO support and increase demands on alliance members’ defense spending.
The agreement, already supported by several UK defense and technology companies, will cover joint arms procurement and ensure British companies’ participation in the European military credit program amounting to 150 billion euros. It will serve as an important addition to a broader discussion of the geopolitical challenges facing the EU.
In response to global challenges brought about by the Trump administration’s actions, the EU will strengthen its cooperation with the UK. This is also linked to preparations for new agreements in areas such as energy, migration, and fisheries. However, the latter issue is causing disputes among EU coastal countries, such as France and Denmark, which insist on maintaining access to UK waters.
Meanwhile, the European Commission continues to develop the EU’s defense strengthening strategy, which aims to raise 800 billion euros for defense needs, thereby enhancing Europe’s collective security.
