UK Prime Minister Starmer Signals Push for Closer EU Defence Ties Ahead of Trade Talks

Starmer Advocates for Enhanced European Defence Cooperation

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated a strong desire for closer defence cooperation with Europe, a move that precedes upcoming trade talks between the United Kingdom and the European Union. Speaking on February 1, 2026, Starmer signaled a renewed openness to deeper coordination, including potentially revisiting the UK's participation in EU initiatives such as the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) fund.

His remarks come as senior EU and UK officials convened in London on February 2 to discuss trade and broader post-Brexit relations. Starmer's call for closer ties reflects a broader strategy to move beyond existing post-Brexit arrangements and address a rapidly evolving global security landscape.

Context of Renewed Defence Dialogue

The push for enhanced defence cooperation is set against a backdrop of escalating global tensions, including concerns over US reliability under Donald Trump and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These factors have underscored the urgency for Europe to bolster its autonomous defence capabilities.

Previous negotiations for the UK to join the EU's €150 billion (£130 billion) SAFE defence fund collapsed in November 2025. Reports suggested the breakdown was due to disagreements over the entry price, with the EU reportedly demanding €2 billion, while the UK considered a contribution in the hundreds of millions more appropriate. Despite this, there is now understood to be a greater appetite on both sides for a deal on the UK joining a future round of SAFE, particularly in light of recent geopolitical developments.

Starmer's Vision for UK-EU Relations

Prime Minister Starmer has consistently argued that 'Europe, including the UK, needs to do more on security and defence'. He emphasized during a trip to China that the UK should not limit itself to implementing existing agreements with the EU, but should instead 'go further'. This broader vision for UK-EU relations also includes exploring closer alignment with the EU's single market in specific sectors, such as chemicals and automotive manufacturing, rather than a return to the customs union.

The Labour Party's manifesto outlines a commitment to increasing defence expenditure to 2.5% of GDP 'as soon as we can' and strengthening NATO. The party also aims to rebuild relationships with key European allies like France and Germany through increased defence and security cooperation. Joining the SAFE fund could offer significant benefits, including unlocking export opportunities for British defence industries and contributing to Europe's wider rearmament efforts.

Upcoming Discussions and Potential Hurdles

While defence cooperation is not officially on the agenda for the immediate meetings in London, diplomatic sources indicate that the UK is keen to discuss restarting negotiations on this front as soon as possible. Maroš Šefčovič, the EU's trade commissioner, is expected in London for talks covering trade, energy, and fisheries.

However, the path to closer cooperation is not without challenges. Domestic political considerations continue to influence the scope and pace of Starmer's EU reset. Additionally, the UK government is reportedly concerned about the EU's 'Made in Europe' initiative, fearing it could exclude British companies from crucial supply chains in key sectors.