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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is hosting senior EU officials in London this Monday in a landmark summit aimed at rebuilding a closer relationship with the European Union — five years after the UK officially left the bloc.
This is the first tangible step in Starmer’s widely anticipated “reset” of the UK’s EU ties, and it could mark a turning point after years of post-Brexit tension. The Labour government says it’s aiming for a “strengthened, forward-looking partnership” with the EU, promising benefits for jobs, cost of living, and border management.
Although sticking points remain — particularly around fishing rights and a youth mobility scheme — the summit is expected to yield progress on a Security and Defence Partnership. This deal would enhance military cooperation and give the UK more formal access to EU-led missions and possibly a €150 billion defence fund.
“There’s a real willingness from the UK side to move closer to the EU, especially on economic and security matters,” said one unnamed EU diplomat.
In addition to the defence deal, two other documents are expected to be signed: a joint statement of European solidarity, and a Common Understanding to ease some Brexit-related trade frictions.
While Starmer remains firm on not rejoining the EU single market or customs union, he is open to dynamic alignment in certain sectors, particularly agriculture and food, to reduce border delays and cut red tape — a move welcomed by UK exporters.
The government is also considering a youth mobility scheme to allow limited work and study exchanges for 18- to 30-year-olds, though full freedom of movement remains off the table.
As the EU and UK prepare for new global security challenges — including the potential return of Donald Trump and the threat from Russia — both sides see the summit as a chance to start a new era of cooperation.
