Trump’s tariff onslaught takes UK-EU reset deal closer to finish line
The two sides are expected to sign defence, security and youth visa agreements during the May 19 summit in London
Progress has been made on efforts to secure a defence and security pact between Britain and the EU in time for the meeting in London next month, according to people familiar with the matter from both sides of the negotiations. They requested anonymity discussing a deal that has not been finalised.
Officials are also continuing discussions on an agreement on fishing rights, the people said. If a deal cannot be reached in time for the May 19 summit then a commitment towards one, potentially including a framework and timeline for future negotiations, could be made, the people said.
Developments in the negotiations reflect how Trump’s tariff war and policy on Ukraine and European defence more widely have pushed the UK and EU closer together. Where previously disagreement over fishing had been seen as a stumbling block on the way to a broader agreement, there is now a desire on both sides to find an elegant solution to that ensures the defence and security deal is not delayed, the people said.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told a parliamentary committee on Tuesday that he thought “real progress” could be made on UK-EU relations and indicated that London should be able to access an EU defence fund once it agrees a security pact. “It is very important that our defence companies are involved,” he said, adding that fisheries were an important part of discussions.
A UK government spokesperson said the government “will not be providing a running commentary on talks when it comes to our dialogue with the EU”.