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EU–UK security and defence cooperation

This dossier follows the defence dialogue between London and the European Union, its commitments and industrial disagreements.

Last updated : 1 key moments

Where things stand

In Brussels on 2 November 2026, Kaja Kallas and Wes Streeting advocated closer cooperation. Kallas prioritised existing defence frameworks; Streeting warned against protectionism.

London and Brussels discuss defence amid differences over European preference

Kaja Kallas and British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting advocated closer defence cooperation in Brussels on 2 November 2026. London nevertheless warned that European industrial preference could become counterproductive.

Flag of the United Kingdom.
Symbolic illustration; does not show the meeting. UK Government / Wikimedia Commons, public domain. — UK Government / Wikimedia Commons — domaine public (Crown copyright expiré), rendu PNG.

The EU foreign policy chief recommends that the UK prioritise participation in existing defence mechanisms. She considers talks about British re-entry into the Union premature; Streeting also says the issue is not on the agenda.

The discussions cover support for Ukraine, Russian threats and defence industrial capacity. They prepare for the EU–UK summit announced for 20 November. The statements establish negotiating priorities without announcing a new industrial agreement or British accession to an EU programme.

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