UK strikes major deal with EU in new trade and defence pact

On Monday, May 19, Britain signed a historic trade and defence pact with the European Union, the most significant reset of ties since Brexit. The agreement, driven in part by the geopolitical shifts following President Donald Trump’s policies, grants the UK unprecedented access to the EU market while maintaining its stance on not rejoining the single market, customs union, or freedom of movement. Central to the deal is a new defence and security pact that allows Britain to participate in joint procurement and a $167 billion programme to rearm Europe. It also eases red‑tape for food and agricultural producers, promises to make food cheaper, improves energy security, and is projected to add about $12 billion to the UK economy by 2040. Additional provisions include a contentious fishing agreement, a limited youth mobility scheme, and faster access for British visitors through EU airport e‑gates. Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the deal as a “win‑win,” while EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the collaboration. The pact faced criticism from Nigel Farage and the opposition Conservative Party, who argued it undermines the Brexit vote.