UK Rejects EU Demand for €6.75 Billion to Join Key Defense Fund
British companies would stand to benefit if the UK is able to negotiate access to a €150 billion SAFE program.
Photographer: Samantha Holden/RAFThe UK government rejected a request by the European Commission for as much as €6.75 billion ($7.8 billion) to join its flagship defense fund, a blow to post-Brexit relations under Prime Minister Keir Starmer that also risks damaging Europe’s efforts to deter Russia.
The Commission has proposed Britain should pay a €4 billion to €6.5 billion fee to participate in the Security Action for Europe program, or SAFE, people familiar with the matter said. In addition, it is seeking an administration fee of €150 million to €250 million, according to the people, who requested anonymity because the negotiations are private.