UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer moved closer to securing a major reset in relations with the European Union at a landmark summit on Monday, signalling a possible end to years of post-Brexit tensions.
EU diplomats confirmed that a deal had been reached after late-night negotiations overcame longstanding disagreements, particularly on fishing rights and defence cooperation.
The summit, held at Lancaster House in London, brought together Starmer and key EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. The highlight of the meeting was the formalisation of a “Security and Defence Partnership,” marking a significant step toward closer coordination on military and security issues.
Alongside the defence agreement, two other documents were expected to be signed: a joint statement of solidarity and a Common Understanding covering trade, fishing, and youth mobility. Under the agreement, Britain will permit continued access to its waters for EU fishermen for 12 years beyond the expiration of the current deal in 2026. In return, the EU has agreed to ease restrictions and bureaucracy on UK food imports indefinitely, addressing a key concern for British exporters.
On the contentious issue of youth mobility, the final document included broad language, deferring detailed negotiations to a later date. While London has expressed caution over any arrangement that could resemble a return to freedom of movement, officials said they remain open to a “smart and controlled” scheme allowing 18- to 30-year-olds from both sides to study and work across borders.
Starmer’s Labour government, which swept to power in July 2024, has insisted the existing Brexit deal negotiated by the previous Conservative administration is failing both sides. However, the prime minister has maintained firm red lines, including ruling out any return to the EU’s single market or customs union.
The talks have taken place amid growing geopolitical concerns, with the EU and UK stepping up military preparedness in response to Russia’s ongoing aggression and uncertainties over US commitments to European security under a potential second Donald Trump presidency. The defence partnership is expected to pave the way for more regular security dialogue and could eventually allow the UK to participate in EU military operations and benefit from a €150 billion European defence fund. Further negotiations will be needed to define the extent of UK access.
While deeper defence ties were seen as the least contentious part of the discussions, experts have advised measured expectations. “It’s the next step in closer cooperation… but not a resolution of many of the outstanding questions,” said Olivia O’Sullivan of Chatham House.
Europe Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds, who led UK negotiations, said the government is focused on reducing red tape at the border, especially for perishable goods. “Food is rotting because lorries are waiting hours to cross borders,” he told the BBC, citing a need to streamline certification processes.
He also highlighted efforts to create a fast-track customs lane for British nationals at EU borders. “We want British people who are going on holiday to be able to go and enjoy their holiday, not be stuck in queues,” he said.
Despite progress, Starmer faces political pressure at home, particularly from critics in the Conservative Party and the rising anti-immigration Reform UK party led by Nigel Farage, who view the EU rapprochement as a potential backslide from Brexit sovereignty. Nonetheless, the Labour government appears intent on recalibrating the UK’s relationship with Europe while upholding key Brexit principles.
